Some of them, like the eradication of plague and small pox, have proved successful. Health education for the masses has clearly demonstrated that clean surroundings, boiled water, childhood immunisations, and family planning have their place in preventing infectious diseases. Early and regular screening for diseases like tuberculosis and cancer have been useful in diagnosis and treatment. There has been much propaganda about the evils of alcohol, nicotine, drugs and permissive sexual habits. Yet, all this has not been enough.
Illnesses are on the rise.
Newer, dreaded ones like AIDS are cropping up. We are in this unenviable situation because the individual has not shown enough discipline in taking care of himself or herself. This is where yoga comes in. Patanjali's sutras lay the foundation for a healthy life. That the mind is the root of most physical problems is brought out and guidelines for healthy living are given.