Which of the following actions is considered primary prevention in health practices?

Primary prevention refers to actions taken to prevent the onset of disease or injury before it occurs. This can include health education, lifestyle changes, and other measures aimed at reducing risk factors for disease.

Choosing to avoid smoking while using a contraceptive like the NuvaRing is a clear example of primary prevention. By not smoking, an individual reduces the risk of complications that can arise from both smoking and contraceptive use, such as cardiovascular issues. This proactive behavior contributes to overall health and well-being and exemplifies prevention by addressing potential risks before they manifest.

Regular blood pressure screening, while important for early detection, is part of secondary prevention, as it identifies issues that may already be developing rather than preventing them altogether. Physical rehabilitation post-injury is a form of tertiary prevention since it focuses on managing and mitigating the effects of an illness or injury that has already occurred. Participating in a diabetes support group may support those already diagnosed with diabetes in managing their condition, which again falls under secondary or tertiary prevention rather than primary prevention.

Thus, avoiding smoking while on the NuvaRing effectively exemplifies an action focused on preventing health issues before they arise.