Preventive Paradox

The Preventive Paradox is the idea that many health problems are caused by relatively small risks affecting large groups of people, rather than that only high-risk individuals are at serious danger. For example, widespread measures like fluoridating water may seem unnecessary because most people are healthy, but because they benefit the entire population, they can significantly reduce overall disease rates. In essence, preventive actions often seem less noticeable individually but have substantial public health benefits, highlighting how small risks in many people collectively contribute to better overall health outcomes.