Preventive medicine is still a relatively new idea for many Russians, even as interest grows. A recent survey shows that 47.3 percent already recognize the term preventive medicine, while 52.7 percent are encountering it for the first time. The strongest interest comes from people aged 25 to 34 and 35 to 44, together forming a large share of those showing curiosity. This same trend resonates in North America, where preventive care sits at the core of many health strategies, including regular screenings and wellness visits. The shift signals a move toward a broader approach to keeping people healthy.
Asked about its importance, 43.8 percent considered preventive medicine important, while 30.4 percent rated its importance as particularly high. Yet opinions vary. Some see it mainly as protection against colds, others prefer approaches that rely less on strong medications. A minority, about one in five, reported a positive personal experience with preventive services, underscoring the potential to reduce chronic diseases and diabetes through early prevention.
Most participants connect preventive medicine with disease prevention, regular medical examinations, and vaccination. About 70.5 percent associate it with preventing illness, 52.7 percent with routine checkups, and 24.1 percent with vaccination. Fewer respondents link prevention to a healthy lifestyle, and 20.5 percent do not see the lifestyle element as part of prevention. Meanwhile, 12.5 percent admitted they had little or no idea what preventive medicine entails.
A large majority, 72.3 percent, believe the state should provide more active support for the development of preventive medicine. Still, habits of preventive examinations vary: 25.9 percent have never had a preventive exam, and 52.7 percent see a doctor only every few years. Regular exams, at least once a year, are taken by 21.4 percent of Russians.
The study shows that Russians started to view preventive measures as more effective during the cold season. Thirty-six point six percent prefer to strengthen their immunity through preventive medicine, while 26.8 percent believe that a healthy lifestyle reduces the need for extra measures. At the same time, 15.2 percent think treatment is necessary only when an existing disease is present.
Women accounted for 53.6 percent of participants, and education levels were high, with 31.2 percent holding a bachelor’s degree and 17.9 percent a master’s. The strongest supporters of prevention came from the 35 to 44 age group, making up 38.4 percent of respondents.
Experts note that prevention is becoming a long term health strategy, not just a way to treat symptoms. A founder of the Biorise clinic chain emphasized growing interest in preventive medicine as part of a broader health system. The shift points toward a more holistic approach that aims to maintain health over time rather than react after illness.
Finally, awareness of heart attack symptoms has risen, underscoring the value of early recognition and timely action to avert serious outcomes.