History of the word
The word health first appeared in the English language in 1000 AD and comes from the root word “heal” or “whole”. Traditionally, it has been defined as:

“physical and mental well-being, freedom from defect, pain, or disease.”

Webster’s Dictionary

However, to some, this definition contradicts current thinking, in that many individuals may have varying degrees of pain or discomfort even if it is as small as a blister or a paper cut. In addition, we have come to understand that it is possible to “manage disease” or to be quite healthy even in the presence of a disability. Consider the physical feats of athletes who have cancer or AIDS, for example. The actor Christopher Reeves has raised our awareness about the capacity to contribute as a quadriplegic.
Experts continue to debate how best to define health.