What is an example of tertiary disease prevention?

Tertiary disease prevention focuses on managing and mitigating the impact of an existing disease, aiming to improve quality of life and reduce symptoms or complications. It includes strategies designed to help individuals who have already been diagnosed with a condition, allowing them to manage their disease more effectively and prevent further deterioration.

Meals on wheels for the homebound exemplifies tertiary prevention as it provides support to individuals who may be dealing with chronic health issues or disabilities, ensuring they have access to nutritious food without the need to leave their home. This service can significantly improve the well-being of these individuals, helping to manage their health and reduce risks associated with malnutrition or other health complications.

In contrast, regular exercise programs, vaccination campaigns, and public health education focus more on preventing diseases before they start or catching them early, which aligns more with primary and secondary prevention strategies rather than tertiary.