Quartenary Prevention and the Reduction of Polypharmacyin Chronic Diseases

Abstract

Quaternary prevention (P4), focuses on protecting patients from unnecessary and invasive medical interventions, proposing ethical and evidence-based alternatives. The concept of P4 aims to avoid excessive diagnoses and treatments, which can transform normal living conditions into pathologies, resulting in damage to the well-being of patients. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the role of Quaternary Prevention (P4) in clinical practice, highlighting its importance in protecting patients against unnecessary medical interventions and in the prevention of polypharmacy in chronic diseases, based on a review of the scientific literature. METHODS: This study conducted a bibliographic review on P4 and its relationship with polypharmacy in chronic diseases, using the PubMed database and analyzing five selected articles. The methodology included a pre-analysis of the texts, with reading and organization of the information to facilitate understanding and group discussion. DEVELOPMENT: Examples of damage to the well-being of patients include the excessive treatment of diseases such as osteoporosis and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), as well as the performance of tests such as unnecessary CT scans, which generate anxiety and more procedures. P4, therefore, goes beyond demedicalization, involving a continuous revaluation of clinical practice with a focus on ethics, prudence and rational use of medical resources. CONCLUSION: It is concluded that doctors, by promoting a relationship of trust with patients and shared decisions, play a crucial role in the implementation of this approach, avoiding excessive interventions and preserving the quality of life.