Preventive Medicine: The Key to Healthy Living

Throughout my life, I have learned that preventive medicine is essential to keep us healthy and avoid diseases that could complicate our existence. But what exactly is preventive medicine? It is a medical specialty focused on preventing diseases, detecting conditions in their early stages and controlling chronic diseases before they affect our quality of life.

The Importance of Preventive Medicine

Preventive medicine is not just another branch of medicine; it is a philosophy of life. Its main objective is to reduce the chances of getting sick, suffering a disability or dying prematurely. This is achieved by identifying and modifying risk factors, promoting healthy habits and performing regular medical checkups.

Types of Prevention in Medicine

Preventive medicine is divided into several levels, each with a specific focus:

• Primary Prevention: Consists of activities aimed at preventing the onset of diseases before they occur. It includes health promotion, specific protection (such as vaccinations) and chemoprophylaxis (use of drugs to prevent disease). This type of prevention is fundamental and the most effective.
• Secondary Prevention: It focuses on the early detection of diseases through screening. The aim is to identify and treat diseases in their early stages, increasing the chances of successful treatment and reducing healthcare costs.
• Tertiary Prevention: Seeks to reduce the impact of an already established disease, avoiding complications and improving the patient's quality of life.

My Experience with Preventive Medicine

Let me share some personal anecdotes that illustrate the importance of preventive medicine in my life.

Vaccination in Adulthood

A few years ago, I was at a family gathering when my aunt Carmen mentioned that she had received a flu shot. I was surprised, as I always thought vaccinations were a kid thing. She explained to me that adult vaccination is crucial to prevent illness and complications, especially in older people or those with chronic conditions. Since then, I make sure to keep my vaccinations up to date, understanding that it is an effective way to take care of my health and the health of those around me.

Regular Medical Checkups

I remember that, in my youth, I used to avoid doctor's visits. I thought that, if I felt fine, there was no need to worry. However, after a talk with a doctor friend, I understood the importance of regular checkups. These exams help detect potential health problems at an early stage, facilitating more effective and less invasive treatments. Since then, I schedule an annual checkup visit with my primary care physician, who compiles my health history, performs a physical exam and looks for signs of chronic diseases.

Adopting Healthy Habits

Preventive medicine also involves adopting a healthy lifestyle. A few years ago, I decided to change my eating habits and start exercising regularly. It wasn't easy at first, but the benefits have been immense. Maintaining a balanced diet and engaging in physical activity has not only helped me maintain a healthy weight, but has also improved my mood and energy levels.

Preventive Medicine in Today's Society

In our society, preventive medicine plays a key role. With the aging population, it is essential to implement strategies that promote health and prevent disease. For example, falls are one of the leading causes of external death in Spain, causing around four thousand deaths annually. Frailty, which includes factors such as loss of strength and fatigability, increases healthcare costs to 2,500 euros per frail person, twice as much as an elderly person without frailty. Frailty can be prevented and reversed by controlling diseases, exercising and maintaining a healthy diet.

Innovations in Preventive Medicine

Technology has also revolutionized preventive medicine. Programs based on genome sequencing and analysis make it possible to identify genetic predispositions to certain diseases, facilitating early and personalized interventions. Sanitas, for example, has launched a pioneering program called "My Genomic Health", focused on the sequencing and analysis of the human genome to prevent and treat diseases with genetic predispositions, such as cancers and type 2 diabetes. This program will integrate technologies such as artificial intelligence and wearables, along with the expertise of medical professionals.

Conclusion

Preventive medicine is a powerful tool that allows us to take control of our health. Through the adoption of healthy habits, regular medical check-ups and proper vaccination, we can prevent numerous diseases and improve our quality of life. Let's not wait for health problems to appear; let's act proactively and responsibly. Remember, prevention is the best medicine.