Community Medicine (PSM) · Screening of Diseases and Health Concepts

According to the World Health Organization definition adopted in 1948, health is best described as:

  • A Absence of disease and infirmity together with adequate functional capacity
  • B Equilibrium between the individual and the physical environment
  • C The ability to perform socially valued roles despite underlying pathology
  • D A state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity
Correct answer: D. A state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity

Explanation

The WHO Constitution of 1948 defines health as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. This definition is notable for being positive and multidimensional, covering physical, mental and social domains. Option C describes role functioning used in some sociological models, and option B reflects ecological equilibrium concepts, neither of which matches the constitutional wording examined in Indian exams.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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