How to Write a Health Feature

Health is the state of being physically, mentally and socially well. The definition of health by the World Health Organisation was established in 1948 as ‘a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity’.

There are a number of factors that influence health, some of which can be controlled by individual choices, such as whether to smoke or exercise regularly. Other determinants are outside an individual’s control, such as genetic disorders or their socioeconomic status (which determines access to medical care and the ability to afford healthy food).

A person’s health depends on both the animate and inanimate environment and their personal behaviour and lifestyle choices. The environment can include both the natural and built surroundings, as well as the social milieu. Individuals can improve their own health by participating in healthful activities and avoiding unhealthful ones, such as limiting alcohol intake, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet and reducing stress levels. Health can be further improved by consuming a wide variety of foods and avoiding junk food and tobacco products.

In many parts of the world, individuals with poorer health may be at greater risk due to poverty or lack of access to healthcare services. This is particularly true in rural areas, where there is often a shortage of trained healthcare professionals and the distance to medical facilities can be significant. Having a low income can also be a contributory factor to ill health, as individuals in this position are more likely to have trouble obtaining a decent quality education and finding work and are more likely to suffer from psychological stress.

Modern medicine relies on information – paper records, as well as electronic databases and reports – in order to provide effective treatment for patients. It is important that health writers understand how to research their topics properly, as failing to do so can lead to inaccurate content that could harm or confuse readers.

When writing health features, it is important to avoid expressing your opinion unless you are an expert in the field. Including opinions in your article can be misleading for readers and will often come across as bias. Similarly, it is important to use evidence effectively when making claims and arguments in your articles.

Before you begin writing your article, it is a good idea to create a outline or a plan for what you want the article to say and how you’re going to structure it. This will help you to focus on the most important points, as well as ensuring that your content is cohesive and coherent.

Health is the state of being physically, mentally and socially well. The definition of health by the World Health Organisation was established in 1948 as ‘a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity’. There are a number of factors that influence health, some of which can be controlled by individual choices, such as whether to smoke or exercise regularly. Other determinants are outside an individual’s control, such as genetic disorders or their socioeconomic status (which determines access to medical care and the ability to afford healthy food). A person’s health depends on both the animate and inanimate environment and their personal behaviour and lifestyle choices. The environment can include both the natural and built surroundings, as well as the social milieu. Individuals can improve their own health by participating in healthful activities and avoiding unhealthful ones, such as limiting alcohol intake, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet and reducing stress levels. Health can be further improved by consuming a wide variety of foods and avoiding junk food and tobacco products. In many parts of the world, individuals with poorer health may be at greater risk due to poverty or lack of access to healthcare services. This is particularly true in rural areas, where there is often a shortage of trained healthcare professionals and the distance to medical facilities can be significant. Having a low income can also be a contributory factor to ill health, as individuals in this position are more likely to have trouble obtaining a decent quality education and finding work and are more likely to suffer from psychological stress. Modern medicine relies on information – paper records, as well as electronic databases and reports – in order to provide effective treatment for patients. It is important that health writers understand how to research their topics properly, as failing to do so can lead to inaccurate content that could harm or confuse readers. When writing health features, it is important to avoid expressing your opinion unless you are an expert in the field. Including opinions in your article can be misleading for readers and will often come across as bias. Similarly, it is important to use evidence effectively when making claims and arguments in your articles. Before you begin writing your article, it is a good idea to create a outline or a plan for what you want the article to say and how you’re going to structure it. This will help you to focus on the most important points, as well as ensuring that your content is cohesive and coherent.