Health, as defined by the World Health Organization, is a condition “of complete physical, emotional and social well being and not just the absence of sickness and disease.” A number of definitions have been utilized over the years for different purposes. Anemia, for example, indicates a state in which red blood cells are undernourished, making them less able to carry oxygen to the body. In this condition, the hemoglobin content is lower than normal. Low hemoglobin levels can lead to bleeding, such as that seen in conditions like thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, and can also result in reduced skin pigmentation. It can be an indicator of an underlying venous disease.

Mental health is related to daily life activities. People who are mentally healthy are happier with their lives and report having higher overall confidence levels. Individuals with higher levels of stress are more likely to develop serious mental disorders. Depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder can all be symptoms of a less than complete physical and emotional health.

Both physical and mental health must be balanced in order for them to be maintained. A good diet and a regular exercise program is essential to keeping one’s body and mind in balance. The environment can have a strong influence on both. The quality of the surrounding social environment, the availability of safe places to play, and the education and socialization provided throughout a child’s early years can all affect the health of that child. SIDS, which is a common cause of infant death, can be a result of a decreased quality of life due to a poor social environment and lack of social interaction.

Environmental factors can also impact a person’s overall health. For example, exposure to harmful chemicals and toxins has been shown to have a negative effect. This is especially true in children who are highly susceptible to such illnesses as asthma and allergies. Even individuals who are physically healthy can become ill from exposure to pollutants in the air such as cigarette smoke or mold. An unhealthy social environment can create a number of illnesses for those who live there.

Socioeconomic status is another factor affecting one’s health. Poor health can be caused by a poor socioeconomic status. Not having sufficient money to pay medical bills and maintain an optimal level of hygiene can put a person at risk of contracting an illness. In addition, people who are not well educated about environmental health and nutrition may be at a higher risk of developing illnesses and diseases that are related to poor health. People who are economically disadvantaged are more likely to live in low-income neighborhoods with limited access to clean and healthy food, clean water, proper lighting and adequate ventilation.

Although poor health conditions can contribute to a person’s death, being in poor health will shorten their life span. Having a good overall health can help prevent death and allow people to enjoy a longer lifespan. There are multiple factors that contribute to health conditions such as the immune system, cardiovascular function, mental health, physiological health, and socioeconomic status. A healthy lifestyle can help maintain these factors and improve ones overall health.