Which level of prevention is aimed at early detection and treatment?

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

Answer: (B)

Early detection with prompt treatment is the hallmark of secondary prevention. It targets diseases in their latent or early symptomatic stages, aiming to interrupt progression and reduce morbidity by catching conditions when they’re most treatable. Examples include cancer screening such as mammography, colonoscopy, or Pap smears, as well as screening for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes so treatment can begin early if needed. Primary prevention aims to prevent disease from occurring in the first place, through vaccines and risk-reduction strategies. Tertiary prevention focuses on reducing disability and promoting rehabilitation after disease has established. Quaternary prevention seeks to prevent overmedicalization and protect patients from unnecessary or harmful interventions.