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The focus on controlling risk factors to prevent disease falls under primary prevention. This level of prevention is aimed at reducing the incidence of disease by addressing and modifying factors that contribute to health risks before any signs or symptoms of illness occur. For example, primary prevention strategies may include vaccination programs, health education on healthy lifestyles, and policies aimed at reducing exposure to harmful substances.

In contrast, secondary prevention involves the early detection and prompt treatment of disease to limit its impact, typically through screening and diagnostic tests. Tertiary prevention focuses on managing and reducing the impact of long-term health problems or disabilities once a disease has been diagnosed. Therefore, primary prevention is distinctly characterized by its proactive stance on preventing disease by modifying risk factors, making it the correct answer in this context.