IELTS Vocabulary: Health — 20 Essential Words

How widespread or common something is, particularly a disease or condition.

“The prevalence of obesity has increased significantly in developed countries over the past 30 years.”

Involving little physical activity; characteristic of a lifestyle with insufficient movement.

“Sedentary lifestyles are a major contributor to the rise in lifestyle diseases.”

Capable of being avoided through action or intervention.

“Many leading causes of death in developed countries are preventable through lifestyle changes.”

A person's condition with regard to their psychological and emotional wellbeing.

“Investment in mental health services has not kept pace with rising demand.”

A medical condition characterised by excessive body fat that presents a health risk.

“Childhood obesity rates have more than doubled in many countries over the past two decades.”

The organisation of institutions, resources, and people delivering health services.

“An underfunded healthcare system places an enormous burden on both patients and medical staff.”

Persisting for a long time or recurring frequently.

“Chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease place the greatest burden on health systems.”

A widespread occurrence of a disease or condition in a community at a particular time.

“Some public health experts describe rising obesity rates as a global epidemic.”

The state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy.

“Public health policy should address both physical and psychological wellbeing.”

Action taken to improve a situation, especially a government or medical action.

“Early intervention programmes have proven effective in reducing long-term health costs.”