Which of the following is NOT a primary prevention example?

• A. Immunizations
• B. Nutritional programs
• C. Early detection of disease
• D. Physical fitness activities

Answer: (C)

Primary prevention aims to stop disease from developing by removing risk factors and preventing exposure in the first place. Immunizations work by creating immunity before exposure to a pathogen, reducing the incidence of infectious disease. Nutritional programs promote healthy eating and nutrient adequacy to prevent malnutrition and related health problems. Physical fitness activities lower risk factors for chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity by enhancing overall health before illness occurs. Early detection of disease, on the other hand, looks for disease in its early or preclinical stages so that treatment can prevent progression. That focus on finding disease after it has started places it in secondary prevention, not primary. Screenings such as mammograms or colonoscopies are classic secondary prevention examples. So the statement that is not a primary prevention example is early detection of disease.