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Introduction[edit | edit source]

Health refers to the state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. This encyclopedia provides an extensive guide on various health topics, including common conditions, health care practices, and preventive measures.

Health Topics[edit | edit source]

This article provides an overview of some major health topics, complete with internal links to facilitate navigation and deeper learning within the encyclopedia.

Understanding Health and Disease[edit | edit source]

Health is more than the absence of disease; it is a resource that allows people to manage their life well. The World Health Organization defines it as "a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity."

Disease is a particular abnormal condition that negatively affects the structure or function of all or part of an organism. Diseases can be caused by external factors such as pathogens or by internal dysfunctions, such as autoimmune diseases.

Major Health Topics[edit | edit source]

Nutrition[edit | edit source]

Nutrition is crucial for health and well-being. Nutrient deficiencies and malnutrition can lead to serious health issues. Learning about the macronutrients and micronutrients necessary for optimal health is key.
The Healthy Eating Pyramid is a visual representation of what constitutes a healthy diet. It emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while minimizing processed foods, sugars, and red meat.

Mental health[edit | edit source]

Mental health is as important as physical health. It includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Issues like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder can significantly affect one's quality of life.
Mental Health First Aid is a training program that teaches members of the public how to respond to a mental health emergency and offer support to someone who appears to be in emotional distress.

Physical activity[edit | edit source]

Regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health. It can help control your weight, reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, and strengthen your bones and muscles.
Exercise is any bodily activity that enhances or maintains physical fitness and overall health. It is performed for various reasons, including strengthening muscles and the cardiovascular system, honing athletic skills, weight loss or maintenance, and simply enjoyment.

Preventive nedicine[edit | edit source]

Preventive medicine focuses on the health of individuals, communities, and defined populations. Its goal is to protect, promote, and maintain health and well-being and to prevent disease, disability, and death.
Vaccines are a critical component of preventive medicine and public health. They protect against diseases like measles, influenza, and COVID-19.

Chronic diseases[edit | edit source]

Chronic diseases are long-term medical conditions that are generally progressive. Conditions such as diabetes, COPD, and arthritis are examples.
Management of chronic diseases includes a variety of approaches, including lifestyle modifications, medications, and in some cases, surgery.

Environmental health[edit | edit source]

Environmental health is the branch of public health concerned with all aspects of the natural and built environment affecting human health. Issues like air pollution and water quality fall under this category.
Occupational health is also a major focus within environmental health, aiming to prevent work-related injuries and illnesses.

Most Common Health Topics[edit | edit source]

Aging and elderly health - Health concerns specific to older adults, including age-related diseases and chronic conditions management.
Allergies - How the body reacts to allergens and the management of allergic reactions.
Alternative and Complementary Medicine - Non-traditional health care approaches like herbal medicine and Acupuncture.
Cancer - Approaches to the diagnosis, treatment, and study of cancer.
Cardiovascular health - Maintenance of healthy heart and blood vessels.
Children's health - Health issues pertinent to children, such as development and vaccination.
Chronic diseases - Long-term health conditions and their ongoing management.

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Dental health - Health of teeth and gums.
Dermatology - Skin health and the study of skin diseases.
Disabilities and special needs health - Meeting the health requirements of individuals with disabilities or special needs.
Emergency and trauma care - Urgent medical treatment for acute injuries or illnesses.
Endocrine health - Maintenance of a healthy endocrine system.
Environmental health - Impact of the environment on human health.
Exercise and fitness - Physical activities that bolster health and well-being.
Gastrointestinal health - Maintenance of a healthy digestive system.
Gene therapy - Genetic engineering to treat or prevent diseases.
Genetics and personalized medicine - Utilization of genetic information for tailored treatment plans.
Geriatrics - Management of older adults' health needs.
Hearing and ear health - Preservation of ear health and prevention of hearing loss.
Hematology - Study of the blood and related organs.
Immunology - Functions of the immune system and how to support its health.
Infectious diseases - Strategies to prevent and treat diseases caused by pathogens.
Medical devices - Development and application of devices for medical purposes.
Medical ethics - Ethical considerations and values in medical practice.
Men's health - Health issues specific to men, including prostate health and testosterone management.
Mental health and wellness - Emotional and mental well-being.
Metabolic and nutritional disorders - Maintenance of metabolic health and proper nutrition.
Neurological health - Health of the brain and nervous system.
Nutrition and diet - Effects of diet on health.
Obstetrics and gynecology - Women's reproductive health care.
Oral health - Health of the mouth and dental structures.
Pediatrics - Study of child health and developmental issues.
Pharmaceuticals - Drug development and usage for health management.
Pregnancy and childbirth - Ensuring health during pregnancy and delivery.
Psychiatry - Treatment of mental disorders.
Public Health and Preventive Medicine - Improving population health through prevention.
Radiology - Use of medical imaging in diagnosis and treatment.
Renal health - Keeping kidneys healthy.
Respiratory health - Care for lungs and respiratory system.
Rheumatology - Diseases affecting joints, muscles, and bones.
Sexual health and STIs - Sexual behaviors and sexually transmitted infections.
Skin health - Skin care and disease prevention.
Sleep Health - Promoting healthy sleep patterns.
Substance Abuse and Addiction - Addressing the harmful use of various substances.
Urology - Study of the urinary system and male reproductive organs.
Vaccines - Disease prevention through immunization.
Vision and Eye health - Maintaining vision and eye health.
Women's health - Health issues unique to women, including breast cancer and menopause.

A-Z Health Topics[edit | edit source]

Explore our comprehensive list of health topics arranged alphabetically for ease of navigation.

Go to a letter on this page:

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

View All Health Topics on one page!

External Links[edit | edit source]

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