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Prevention and its three levels

To begin to describe the characteristics of the levels, it is necessary to take into consideration that
prevention has different fields of application, which influence the definition and understanding of
this in relation to cultural differences, which is why the WHO (1966) defines it as those measures
designed not only to prevent the onset of the disease, such as the reduction of risk factors, but also
to stop its progression and mitigate its consequences once it has been established,

To explain the characteristics of the three levels of prevention, mention will be made of that
proposed by Álvarez, et al. (2011), as it efficiently describes primary, secondary and tertiary
prevention, mentioning their characteristics, as well as the target audience.

Primary prevention strategies are developed before any problem arises and may be aimed at
prohibiting or reducing the individual's exposure to the harmful factor to levels that are not harmful
to health, or at preventing the onset of a disease or health problem by controlling the causal factors
and predisposing or conditioning factors aimed at individuals and groups at risk.

Public Health's own preventive actions. In secondary prevention, early diagnosis, timely screening
and appropriate treatment are essential for disease control. individuals and groups with possible
disease (screening). To specific risks. Clinical type.

It refers to actions related to the recovery of the clinically manifest disease, through a correct
diagnosis and treatment and physical, psychological and social rehabilitation in case of disability
or sequelae, thus seeking to reduce them. In tertiary prevention, the control and follow-up of the
patient are essential in order to apply treatment and rehabilitation measures in a timely manner.
The aim is to minimize the suffering caused by the loss of health; to facilitate the adaptation of
patients to incurable problems and to contribute to prevent or reduce as much as possible the
recurrence of the disease. For example, with regard to rehabilitation we exemplify: the realization
of physiotherapy after removal of a plaster cast for fracture - patients at risk of complications and
death. Clinical. Recovery.

Álvarez, C., Julio, V., Sosa, A. & Vacarezza, M. (2011). Levels of care, prevention and primary
health care. Arch MEd Interna, 32 (1). 11-14.
World Health Organization (2008), Primary Health Care. More Needed than Ever. World Health
Report. ISBN 978 92 92 4 356373 2. Geneva,2008 Cited 25/3/2010. D