Who created the definition, "Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being"?

The definition, "Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being," was created by the World Health Organization (WHO). This comprehensive definition is significant because it extends beyond the absence of disease or illness, emphasizing the importance of overall well-being in various aspects of life. The premise recognizes that health is not merely a physical condition but also encompasses psychological and social dimensions.

The WHO introduced this definition in 1948 when it was established, signaling a shift in how health was conceptualized globally. This broader perspective has influenced health policies, public health initiatives, and has shaped how healthcare systems approach health promotion and illness prevention.

Other organizations, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the American Medical Association (AMA), focus primarily on disease prevention, research, and medical standards, but they do not hold the origin of this particular definition of health. Thus, the WHO is correctly attributed to this inclusive definition, which continues to guide health discourse and practice today.