What does "preventing disease before it occurs" mean?

"Treating disease before it occurs" is an important concept in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), first originating from the statement in the Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon): "The superior physician treats disease before it occurs, rather than treating existing disease." It emphasizes taking appropriate preventive and therapeutic measures when disease has not yet developed or only presents with slight early signs, in order to maintain health. The concept of "treating disease before it occurs" encompasses three key meanings:

1. Preventing disease before it occurs: This refers to maintaining health before disease develops, through various measures such as regulating diet and daily routines, managing emotional well-being, and engaging in physical exercise, to maintain balance of yin and yang and of qi and blood, and to strengthen the body's resistance to disease. This reflects TCM's preventive philosophy of "treating disease before it occurs," aiming to prevent illness before it arises.

2. Preventing progression after disease onset: Even after disease has occurred, timely measures should be taken to prevent further development and worsening of the condition. This includes early diagnosis, early treatment, and attention to harmonizing the internal organs and preserving the body's vital energy during treatment, to prevent deeper invasion and transmission of pathogenic factors.

3. Preventing recurrence after recovery: After disease has resolved, measures should be taken to prevent recurrence. This includes adjusting lifestyle, avoiding re-exposure to pathogenic factors, and undergoing regular follow-up examinations for timely detection and management of potential problems.