It is often argued that preventing diseases is better than treating and researching because it is too costly. I partly agree with this view, cause some diseases are unavoidable.
To begin with, prevention is cheaper than long-term treatment because many diseases are lifestyle-related and can be avoided through regular exercise and a healthy diet. This leads to fewer hospital visits and reduces pressure on hospitals and medical staff. For instance, regular physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. As a result, this benefits both governments and individuals because healthcare costs are lower and society becomes healthier.
However, treatment and medical research are essential for diseases that are unavoidable. These conditions are difficult to prevent and can even be asymptomatic in their early stages. Proper treatment helps manage such diseases, allowing patients to live longer. For example, cancer and Down syndrome cannot be prevented: one is mostly caused by genetic factors, while the other is often asymptomatic during its early stages. Ultimately, investing in treatment and research saves lives and improves public health
In conclusion, although prevention is more cost-effective and can reduce the risk of many diseases, treatment and medical research remain essential for conditions that cannot be prevented
