Which level of prevention involves interventions to reduce or limit progression and complications of established disease?

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

Answer: (C)

When a disease is already present, the goal shifts from preventing the disease to preventing further harm and complications and helping the person function better. This approach is known as tertiary prevention. It focuses on reducing the impact of established disease by stopping its progression, preventing disability, and minimizing complications through treatments, rehabilitation, and careful management. Examples include rehabilitation after a stroke to limit disability, intensive management to prevent diabetic complications like ulcers, and programs to improve heart function after a myocardial infarction.

Primary prevention aims to stop the disease from occurring in the first place (for example, vaccines or lifestyle changes in healthy individuals). Secondary prevention seeks to catch the disease early to prevent progression (such as screening tests that lead to early treatment). Quaternary prevention involves avoiding unnecessary or harmful medical interventions to prevent overmedication or overtreatment.