Harm reduction is the public health principle of reducing the negative consequences associated with human behaviors. Harm reduction asserts that we meet people “where they are” to support their overall health.

Harm reduction is frequently associated with substance use: however, additional examples of harm reduction include wearing a seatbelt while driving or riding in a moving vehicle, condom use during sexual activity, wearing sunscreen, and taking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Harm reduction is as broad and varied as the individuals and communities it swerves.