Primordial Prevention
This government health campaign encouraging low fat and low salt intake to prevent hypertension and diabetes represents primordial prevention (Answer A). 1
Definition and Rationale
Primordial prevention encompasses actions taken to inhibit health risk factors and subsequently prevent chronic disease in selected or whole communities before risk factors even develop. 1 This represents a paradigm shift that targets broader at-risk populations rather than individuals who already have established risk factors.
Key Distinguishing Features
Programs that address diet patterns (such as foods with high-fat/high-salt content) to prevent the development of hypertension, heart disease, obesity, and stroke from fetal development to older age are classic examples of primordial prevention. 1
The American Heart Association has prioritized primordial prevention policies for heart disease and stroke by promoting:
- Access to healthier (reduced sodium) foods 1
- Improved food labeling 1
- Physical exercise programs in schools and the workplace 1
Contrast with Other Prevention Levels
Primary prevention differs fundamentally because it addresses established risk factors in individuals who already have them (such as prescribing antihypertensives for high blood pressure or aspirin for patients with stroke risk factors). 1
Secondary prevention involves early detection and treatment of disease (such as screening programs), while tertiary prevention focuses on managing complications in those with established disease. 1
Why This Campaign is Primordial
This government campaign targets the general population before they develop hypertension or diabetes, aiming to prevent the risk factors themselves from emerging. 1 The intervention occurs at the population level through dietary modification recommendations, which is the hallmark of primordial prevention strategies. 1, 2