Control is a treatment goal that refers to the a. Primary prevention of disease b. Extension of life c. Reduction of side effects d. Absence of disease
- Control is a treatment goal that refers to the a. Primary prevention of disease b. Extension of life c. Reduction of side effects d. Absence of disease
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: b. Extension of life
Explanation:
In the context of treatment goals in healthcare and medicine, “control” refers specifically to the management of a disease to reduce its impact, slow its progression, and extend the patient’s life, rather than completely curing it or preventing it entirely. Therefore, the correct answer is b. Extension of life.
Treatment goals in medicine typically fall into one of three broad categories:
- Cure – complete eradication of the disease.
- Control – management of the disease to minimize symptoms, prevent progression, and prolong life.
- Palliation – relief of symptoms to improve quality of life without targeting the underlying disease.
When a disease cannot be cured—such as many chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, HIV, or certain cancers)—control becomes the realistic and achievable goal. This involves using medications, lifestyle changes, therapies, and other interventions to keep the disease in check, avoid complications, and help the patient live longer and more comfortably.
Control differs from primary prevention (which seeks to stop the disease before it starts) and from the absence of disease (a state often associated with cure or complete health). It also differs from merely reducing side effects, which is a secondary goal related to improving the tolerability of treatments.
For example, in the management of HIV, antiretroviral therapy does not cure the infection but controls the viral load to undetectable levels, thereby extending the life and improving the quality of life for the patient. Similarly, cancer treatments like chemotherapy or radiation may not eliminate the tumor entirely but can control its growth, prolong survival, and prevent severe complications.
Thus, in clinical practice, “control” is focused on maintaining disease stability and extending life, making it an essential goal in many therapeutic strategies.
