Profylaktisk
Profylaktisk, or prophylactic in English, is an adjective used in medicine and public health to describe actions, measures, or substances aimed at preventing disease or complications rather than treating an existing condition. The word derives from Greek prophylaxis, meaning guarding beforehand (pro- “before” + phylax “guard”).
Prophylaxis encompasses a range of approaches. Immunoprophylaxis includes vaccines and immunoglobulins to prevent infections. Chemoprophylaxis or
Prophylaxis can also extend to preventive or risk‑reducing procedures, such as prophylactic surgery for individuals with
While prophylactic measures aim to reduce disease burden, they may carry risks, including adverse effects and