Evaluation of Wellness Determinants and Interventions by Citizen Scientists.

Most medical research focuses on disease rather than health. Yet people are interested predominantly in health and wellness. Wellness refers to diverse and interconnected dimensions of physical, mental, and social well-being that extend beyond the traditional definition of health. It includes choices and activities aimed at achieving physical vitality, mental alacrity, social satisfaction, a sense of accomplishment, and personal fulfillment. Equally healthy people may differ vastly in terms of their wellness, eg, whether their life is filled with creativity, altruism, friendship, and physical and intellectual achievement. Disease is incompatible with health, but not with wellness. For example, a dying patient who has led a rewarding life and is surrounded by a loving family and friends may still enjoy high wellness. Little is known about what affects wellness, as opposed to what causes disease. Lifestyle choices and behaviors (eg, physical activity, meditation, nutrition), technology, social participation and engagement, genetics, work, school, neighborhood, and other environmental exposures may shape wellness. Most medical research evaluates the effectiveness of drugs, rather than nondrug interventions, even for indications