Final answer:
In 1986, WHO broadened its definition of health to include physical, mental, and social well-being. The revised concept emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to well-being, adaptability, and the interconnectedness between human health and the environment. It informs global health initiatives like the Millennium Development Goals.
Step-by-step explanation:
WHO's Revised Concept of Health in 1986
In 1986, the World Health Organization (WHO) revised its concept of health to present a more comprehensive understanding beyond just the absence of disease. WHO's perspective broadened to encompass the complete physical, mental, and social well-being of individuals. This new approach recognizes that optimal health involves not only the absence of illness but also the presence of higher levels of functioning and quality of life, which can be influenced by a variety of factors including diet, lifestyle, and environmental conditions.
According to WHO, health is a state that allows individuals to effectively cope with all demands of daily life, highlighting the importance of adaptability and balance. It includes social health, which recognizes the role of sociocultural factors and personal support networks in wellness. Furthermore, the concept of health is applied to the health of ecosystems and the biosphere, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human health and the environment. WHO's revised definition of health encourages a shift to a holistic and proactive approach to well-being, considering a wide range of dimensions that affect individuals' lives.
The updated view on health also aligns with the evolutionary health principle, considering the life conditions and survival needs our species has been adapted to through evolution. Deviations from these conditions can signal potential health concerns. This holistic view also supports the aim of WHO's Millennium Development Goals, which include objectives to improve global health conditions and reduce disparities.