Which option provides the most accurate definition of health?

The correct answer is Option (3) → Health is a state of complete well-being, encompassing physical, mental, and social dimensions.

Health is more than the absence of disease or physical fitness. NCERT defines it as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being. A correct definition must name all three of these sides of well-being.

Option (1) Health is the state of overall well-being, encompassing both the body and mind in a balanced condition. — Incorrect. This option speaks of the body and the mind only. It leaves out social well-being, so it is incomplete.

Option (2) Health is an expression of overall well-being, extending beyond physical appearance. — Incorrect. “Beyond physical appearance” is vague, and the option names none of the three dimensions of health.

Option (3) Health is a state of complete well-being, encompassing physical, mental, and social dimensions. — Correct. This is the book’s definition: a state of complete well-being with physical, mental and social dimensions.

Option (4) Health is an indication of overall well-being, reflecting various aspects of prosperity. — Incorrect. Prosperity is a result of good health (healthy people work better, and this brings economic prosperity). It is not part of the definition of health.

NCERT Extract:
Human Health and Disease – “… Health does not simply mean ‘absence of disease’ or ‘physical fitness’. It could be defined as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being. When people are healthy, they are more efficient at work. This increases productivity and brings economic prosperity. Health also increases longevity of people and reduces infant and maternal mortality.”