Preventive Health Measures

What are Preventive Health Measures?

Preventive health measures aim at preventing disease and disability which may lead to death by protecting the health of an individual. A doctor specializing in preventive health measures has extensive knowledge in epidemiology, biostatistics, health care organization management, planning of health services and clinical, occupational and environmental medicine.

Why are Preventive Health Measures Necessary?

Chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and dental disease are the leading cause of death worldwide. Developing countries are at higher risks of chronic disease due to an unhealthy lifestyle and a higher risk of communicable diseases such as AIDS. 

Preventive health measures can be necessary at any stage of an individual’s life and include:

• Routine vaccinations
• Tests for diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol
• Early screening of cancer
• Counseling to quit smoking or reduce alcohol consumption
• Weight management
• Well-child examination
• Counseling to practice healthy eating habits
• Counseling for depression
• Talk to your healthcare provider to determine which of these measures are right for you. 

General Preventive Measures

Various diseases or disorders can be prevented by following some simple measures such as:

• Consuming a healthy diet
• Exercising regularly
• Quitting the use of tobacco and alcohol
• Minimizing stress
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Getting vaccinated
• Properly handling food
• Practicing cleanliness (personal and environment)
• Consuming pure water
• Avoiding exposure to pollutants
• Taking the correct precautions while sick
• Attaining wellness programs
• Avoiding unprotected sex to prevent diseases such as AIDS

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