Screening programs to identify disease early and prevent progression represent which level of prevention?

Screening programs to identify disease early and prevent progression represent which level of prevention?

• A. Primary.
• B. Secondary.
• C. Tertiary.
• D. Quaternary.

Answer: (B)

Screening programs that look for disease early in people who are not yet showing symptoms are a form of secondary prevention. The aim is to detect illness at an asymptomatic or early stage so treatment can start promptly, preventing progression and reducing complications. This is distinct from primary prevention, which tries to stop the disease from occurring in the first place (like vaccines and health education to reduce risk factors). It’s also different from tertiary prevention, which focuses on minimizing damage and disability once a disease is established (rehabilitation and long-term management). Quaternary prevention isn’t a standard focus in this context. So the most fitting level of prevention here is secondary prevention.

Screening programs that look for disease early in people who are not yet showing symptoms are a form of secondary prevention. The aim is to detect illness at an asymptomatic or early stage so treatment can start promptly, preventing progression and reducing complications. This is distinct from primary prevention, which tries to stop the disease from occurring in the first place (like vaccines and health education to reduce risk factors). It’s also different from tertiary prevention, which focuses on minimizing damage and disability once a disease is established (rehabilitation and long-term management). Quaternary prevention isn’t a standard focus in this context. So the most fitting level of prevention here is secondary prevention.