What term describes actions like mammograms, Pap smears, and colonoscopy?

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

Answer: (B)

Screening tests that detect disease early in people without symptoms align with secondary prevention. Mammograms, Pap smears, and colonoscopy are used to find cancer or precancerous changes at an early stage, allowing earlier treatment and usually better outcomes. Primary prevention would be preventing the disease from developing in the first place (like vaccines or lifestyle changes), while tertiary prevention focuses on reducing complications after a disease is already diagnosed (rehabilitation and management). Quaternary prevention involves avoiding unnecessary or harmful interventions.