The definition of good health is changing to reflect the needs of an aging population. The omnipresence of chronic disease in the United States (6.5 million people) and the world at large (617 million) have changed the concept of what constitutes good health. However, this change in definition does not equate with the fact that many people are living longer. Instead, the definition of “good health” should be flexible enough to adapt to a changing environment.
It is important to understand that health is not a physical entity but a dynamic ecosystem, made up of various players, each with its own needs. As these needs change over time, the landscape of healthcare will change as well, and Americans should be able to choose which ecosystem best meets their needs. It is time we took back control of our health care, and made it a right, rather than a privilege. The right to health is something that every human being should have. Increasing awareness of this basic human right has sparked a new movement for better health in the United States, and other countries have adapted to meet that demand.
We are born with many genes, and sometimes these genes have unusual patterns, resulting in poor health. In addition to genetics, the environment can influence health, and there are many factors that can affect your health. Even if you inherit an unusual combination of genes, the environment can trigger illnesses in people who have an elevated risk for certain diseases. By implementing healthy lifestyle changes, we can improve our health. The world is a healthier place to live.
