Which of the following is an example of secondary prevention?

• A. Annual Pap smears
• B. Megavitamin therapy
• C. Removal of an inflamed appendix
• D. Remaining out of direct sunlight

Answer: (A)

Secondary prevention focuses on detecting disease early in people who have no symptoms, so that treatment can prevent progression or complications. Annual Pap smears fit this because they screen for cervical abnormalities in women without symptoms, allowing early intervention before cancer develops or advances, which reduces morbidity and mortality.

The other options aren’t examples of secondary prevention. Megavitamin therapy isn’t a screening or early-detection strategy. Removal of an inflamed appendix is treatment of an existing condition rather than early detection to prevent progression. Remaining out of direct sunlight is a protective habit aimed at preventing disease from occurring in the first place, which aligns with primary prevention.