Levels of Prevention

Primary:
 Preventative action that occur before the onset of illness or injury
and before the disease process begins.
 Examples: Immunization, regular exercise, healthy diet
Secondary:
 Preventative action that lead to early diagnosis and treatment of
disease, illness or injury in order to prevent severe complications.
 Examples: Screenings, breast self-examinations
Tertiary:
 Action is aimed at rehabilitation and quality of life.
 Examples: Stroke rehabilitation

Health Education can be used at all three levels of prevention.

 Primary prevention- educate about the importance of preventative
actions, like eating a healthy diet, to prevent diseases.
 Secondary prevention- educate about the importance of screenings
in order for early detection and treatment.
 Tertiary prevention- educate about finding ways of working
towards rehabilitation from a significant illness or disability.