Which statement best defines health according to the World Health Organization?

• A. A state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease.
• B. The absence of illness.
• C. A state of physical fitness only.
• D. Mental well-being alone.

Answer: (A)

Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease. This broad view, defined by the World Health Organization, highlights that true health includes how well a person can function in daily life, maintain mental health, and engage with others, as well as having the resources to cope with life’s challenges. The other statements are too narrow: being free from illness doesn’t guarantee overall well-being; physical fitness alone excludes mental and social aspects; and mental well-being alone misses physical health and social connections. So this holistic definition best captures what health means.