prevenci

Prevenci is a term used in many languages to denote prevention, the set of actions intended to avoid or reduce the occurrence of disease, injury, or other harm. The concept encompasses interventions at individual, community, and societal levels and serves as a counterpart to treatment and mitigation. Its etymology traces to Latin praevenire, meaning to come before.

In public health, prevenci is organized into primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. Primary prevention aims to prevent disease or injury before it occurs (vaccination, healthy lifestyle, safety standards). Secondary prevention focuses on early detection to prevent progression (screening tests, prompt diagnosis). Tertiary prevention seeks to minimize disability and improve function after illness or injury (rehabilitation, chronic disease management).

In safety and risk management, prevenci includes hazard assessment, engineering and administrative controls, protective equipment, training, and emergency preparedness. Across sectors, preventive strategies rely on surveillance, risk communication, and policy measures designed to reduce exposure to hazards.

Effectiveness depends on timing, accessibility, and social equity. Challenges include measuring prevented events, balancing resources, and addressing disparities in who benefits from preventive measures.

See also: prevention, public health, risk management, health promotion.