Preventive Medicine
There is increasing evidence that health promotion and screening programs have proven successful for many individuals. Most chronic diseases are associated with lifestyle practices. Among these are both communicable and non communicable diseases.Contemporary lifestyle may be an associated factor in the development and progression of these diseases. Education regarding prevention and management of these diseases may reduce loss of life, improve quality of life, and better utilize financial resources. Additionally, screening programs for early detection and assessment of risk factors for these diseases may prove a valuable component of the educational program.
Early detection reduces the cost of treatment and improves the prognosis. Activities involved include behavior change communication (BCC) as well as confidential testing, including that of HIV as testing for HIV still remains a major entry point and essential part of HIV prevention and AIDS care and support activities. It forms the bridge between primary prevention and care and support, in addition to being important for behavioral change.
Education and Screenings for other chronic communicable and non communicable diseases are also part of the routine activities conducted under this program. Examples are Tuberculosis (TB) programs, other STI’s, hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol and their long term implications as well as other health area related to hygiene, water and sanitation and basic first aid at the community level.