Health has evolved from being understood merely as the absence of disease to a comprehensive state of complete well-being. In 1948, the World Health Organization (WHO) defined health as: "a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity." Modern health is multidimensional and dynamic, representing the ability to adapt and manage life's challenges.
Different demographic groups require targeted health interventions based on their developmental stages and unique challenges.
Childhood lays the foundation for a healthy life. Key needs include:
Adolescence (ages 10–19) is a critical transition period marked by rapid physical, physiological, and emotional changes.
According to the WHO, disability covers impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions. Key frameworks include:
Key statistical indicators highlighting the health status of children in India based on national surveys:
| Health Indicator | Statistical Value / Findings |
|---|---|
| Sex Ratio (0–6 years) | 918 females per 1000 males |
| Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) | Reduced from 46 (2011) to 34 (2016) per 1000 live births |
| Under-five Mortality Rate (U5MR) | 39 per 1000 live births (2016) |
| Stunting (Under 5 years) | 38% of children are stunted (NFHS-4, 2015–16) |
| Wasting (Under 5 years) | 21% of children are wasted |
| Anaemia (6–59 months) | Highest in Haryana (72%), lowest in Mizoram (19%) |
| Basic Vaccination (12–23 months) | 62% received all basic vaccinations |
Improving community and individual health requires active participation from multiple institutions:
Providing accessible, confidential, and non-judgmental healthcare services specifically tailored to adolescent concerns.
Trained senior students act as peer facilitators to help adolescents overcome shyness and discuss sensitive health issues.
Maintaining wellness requires setting positive, realistic, and structured goals using the SMART framework.
| Letter | SMART Element | Example Application |
|---|---|---|
| S | Specific | "I will do jogging." |
| M | Measurable | "For at least 30 minutes daily." |
| A | Achievable | "For five days in a week." |
| R | Relevant | "To reduce my body weight and improve stamina." |
| T | Time-bound | "I will follow this schedule throughout the year." |
Global frameworks established to address health and development challenges:
Physical activity is a key determinant of energy balance, weight control, and prevention of non-communicable diseases.
| Age Group | Recommended Physical Activity Level |
|---|---|
| Children & Adolescents (5–17 years) | At least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity daily. Should include bone and muscle-strengthening activities at least thrice a week. |
| Adults (18–64 years) | At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity throughout the week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days. |