Health
In 1948, the World Health Organization defined health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, rather than merely the absence of disease or disability. This definition was revised in 1986 to view health as a resource for daily living, not merely an end goal. Health is thus perceived as a positive concept, emphasizing social and personal resources alongside physical capabilities. Recently, researchers have redefined health to encompass the body’s ability to adapt to new threats and challenges. This perspective arises from the significant increase in public awareness regarding diseases, their nature, and effective management, facilitated by modern science. Ultimately, leading a healthy lifestyle is the most effective way to maintain both physical and mental health. One should not wait for illness to adopt healthy habits; health is influenced by our daily choices and impacts our entire lifespan. Maintaining health is a long-term process that enhances an individual’s mental, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being. When individuals experience well-being, their potential and capabilities broaden substantially.
5 Important Numbers for Maintaining Health
In today’s world, numbers play a crucial role in our daily lives, influencing both personal and public spheres. However, health metrics are often overlooked, even though they can be life-saving. Understanding these critical figures can provide insights into one’s health status and help in identifying symptoms of potential health issues. Monitoring and regulating these numbers is essential for preserving health and preventing various diseases, ultimately saving lives.
120/80 mmHg: Normal Blood Pressure
This reading represents the ideal level of blood pressure in the body and should be measured regularly. Blood pressure refers to the force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of blood vessels during heart contractions and relaxations. Blood pressure is assessed through two readings: the systolic pressure, which reflects the pressure from the blood flow against arterial walls during heartbeats, and the diastolic pressure, which measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats.
The following table outlines blood pressure readings in mmHg and their classifications:
| Blood Pressure Reading | Classification |
|---|---|
| 120/80 | Normal |
| 120/80 – 139/89 | Prehypertension |
| 140/90 – 159/99 | Hypertension (Stage 1) |
| 160/100 or higher | Hypertension (Stage 2) |
To prevent high blood pressure, consider the following recommendations:
- Reduce salt intake.
- Avoid alcohol consumption.
- Regularly monitor blood pressure.
- Engage in physical activity.
- Maintain a balanced diet.
- Keep a healthy weight.
88.9 cm for Women, 101.6 cm for Men: Waist Circumference
This measurement is significant for assessing waist circumference: a waist measurement of 88.9 cm or more for women and 101.6 cm or more for men indicates an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, metabolic disturbances, high blood pressure, and elevated cholesterol levels.
Measuring your waist circumference is easy; one can use a flexible tape measure to encircle the waist and take the reading with a measuring tape.
18.5 – 25 kg/m²: Body Mass Index (BMI)
This range represents the Body Mass Index (BMI), calculated by dividing a person’s weight by the square of their height. Excess weight can lead to various health issues, including hypertension, high cholesterol levels, and diabetes. Additionally, being overweight places extra strain on the heart, complicating its functions. Therefore, BMI is a useful tool for pinpointing weight-related health problems.
| BMI Reading | Classification |
|---|---|
| Less than 18.5 | Underweight |
| 18.5 – 25 | Normal weight |
| 26 – 30 | Overweight |
| Over 30 | Obesity |
200 mg/dL: Healthy Cholesterol Levels
This figure indicates the ideal level of beneficial cholesterol in the body. Cholesterol is a type of fat, and while not all cholesterol is harmful, it is critical for bodily functions. Thus, the test for cholesterol is referred to as a lipid panel. It measures high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides, which together reflect the body’s lipid levels.
The following table presents lipid profile readings in mg/dL along with their classifications:
| Type | Normal Reading |
|---|---|
| Total Cholesterol | 200 |
| HDL Cholesterol | 50 or higher for women, 40 or higher for men |
| LDL Cholesterol | 100 or lower |
| Triglycerides | Less than 150 |
Less Than 6%: Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c)
The normal glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level for individuals without diabetes is below 6%. For those diagnosed with diabetes, the target should be less than 7%. Daily blood sugar readings from simple glucose measuring devices (fasting blood glucose) can be categorized as follows:
| Reading | Classification |
|---|---|
| Less than 100 | Normal |
| 100 – 125 | Prediabetes |
| 126 or higher | Diabetes |
Factors Influencing Health
Numerous psychological and physical factors impact an individual’s health, which can be categorized into three primary areas:
- Social and Economic Environment: This includes monthly income, social status, education level of the community, family influence, and individual circumstances.
- Physical Environment: This involves the condition of the area where a person lives, its surroundings, and environmental pollutants or pathogens present in that area.
- Genetic and Behavioral Characteristics: This includes inherited genes and personal lifestyle choices, as well as relationships with family and friends.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), as economic conditions and individuals’ social status improve, their likelihood of enjoying better health, education, and access to appropriate healthcare increases. Conversely, those with limited incomes are at a heightened risk of experiencing stress and anxiety due to daily life challenges; financial difficulties, marital issues, and unemployment can exacerbate health problems. The WHO indicates that individuals in developed nations with access to comprehensive healthcare tend to have a higher life expectancy compared to those in developing countries.