FOCUS ON HEALTH

"Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity."

Preamble to the Constitution of the World Health Organization, 1948. This global definition of health is still in effect today.

Good health is much more than eating right, exercising regularly and going to the doctor. To be healthy, we have to balance all aspects of our lives - physical, social, mental, economic and spiritual. These complex factors all work together to determine our state of health and well-being.

The key to good health is not adding years to our life but adding life to our years. Research has shown that many of the chronic diseases that affect our health, particularly as we age, are preventable. To a large extent, we determine our state of health by the choices we make in our daily lives.

It's important to recognize that the aging process starts at birth and continues for a lifetime. The earlier you start making healthy decisions, the more you can enjoy the days and years ahead. The goal of healthy living is to achieve a state of well-being that will allow you to enjoy life to the fullest, regardless of your age.

How can you add life to your years?

To get the best out of life, start by making your health a priority. Not just your physical health, but all the factors that make your life satisfying and fulfilling. Try to find the balance that works for you and take action when that balance tips too far in one direction or another. Here are some things to consider, as you set new priorities for a healthy lifestyle:

• Personal health practices - Are you eating nutritiously and exercising regularly? Do you have regular checkups with your doctor and dentist?

• Coping skills - How do you deal with the stresses of work and home? Do you have the skills you need to handle life's challenges?

• Physical environment - Is your workplace safe and healthy? Is a long commute adding to your daily stress? Are you living in a community that offers the right support for you and your family?

• Social support networks - Do you have a strong support network? Can you count on your family and friends to help in difficult situations?

• Genetics - Inherited characteristics may predispose you to certain health conditions. Do you know the physical characteristics of your family? Are you aware of any health risks that you may have inherited? What actions are you taking to minimize those risks?

• Health services - Do you know what services are available in your community or workplace to help you prevent disease or cope with health challenges?

To be healthy, you must develop strategies that will help you manage all the factors that influence your quality of life. If you start taking care of yourself today, you'll reap the benefits tomorrow - and for years to come.

How healthy are you? Do you recognize the signs of chronic disease? Take this quiz and do your own health check!

Good health is combination of many factors. The Take One Step web site offers practical and useful information about all aspects of healthy living. Follow these links to find out more: Diet and nutrition  Fitness and exercise Work/life balance Healthy workplace Wellness programs  Peel board wellness goals