Which of the following is an example of primary prevention?

• A. Annual Pap smears
• B. Megavitamin therapy as a complementary therapy while receiving chemotherapy
• C. Removal of an inflamed appendix before it ruptures
• D. Remaining out of direct sunlight when working outdoors in summertime

Answer: (D)

Primary prevention focuses on stops disease before it starts by reducing exposure to risk factors or promoting healthy choices. Staying out of direct sunlight when working outdoors in summertime reduces UV exposure and lowers the risk of skin cancer, making it a clear example of primary prevention.

Annual Pap smears are a screening activity intended to detect disease early, so they fall under secondary prevention because the disease process may already be underway even if symptoms aren’t present. Removing an inflamed appendix before it ruptures aims to prevent a serious complication of an existing condition, which aligns more with preventing progression of disease (secondary). Megavitamin therapy during chemotherapy isn’t a standard preventive measure to stop disease from occurring, so it isn’t considered primary prevention.