Primary Prevention Of Disease Essay

Many deaths in the United States result from poor lifestyle choices (Williams & Torrens, 2008). Bad habits, addictions and lifestyle choices such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyle, recreational drug use and sexual promiscuity can lead to diseases and death. Primary prevention of a disease means to prevent it from occurring. Infants and children are immunized to prevent them from contracting diseases such as measles, or polio. Primary prevention of a disease would include removal of occupational hazards, such as asbestos, which is a known carcinogenic. Secondary prevention of a disease includes recognition of the disease early and taking corrective measures. In the case of diabetes, it would include testing those with a genetic disposition to diabetes. Early detection can result in a change of diet and exercise habits and result in a longer, healthier life. Tertiary prevention involves the limitation of the disease once it has been identified. In the case of coronary artery disease, once systems are detected a stress test can indicate coronary artery blockage. If a coronary artery is suspected to be blocked and cardiac catheter can be inserted to open the artery and a stent placed to keep the artery
Public health activities in regard to this include preparation, monitoring, planning, and coordination with other agencies in the event of a terrorist attack. Natural disasters are another threat we face. Natural disasters can often times not be predicted and prevented so planning must be focused on response. Disaster drills are a way in which public health is protected by preventing surprises. Not every situation can be planned for, but practicing healthy lifestyles with diet and exercise, and public health agencies preparing for the as of yet occurred event, the public is healthier and