As one of a series of topic papers assessing federal laws and programs affecting persons with disabilities, this paper describes the major components of a comprehensive program to prevent disabilities, including programs to maximize health care, programs to maximize educational growth and sound psychological development, and programs for public education and awareness. Problems in achieving such a comprehensive prevention program include economic considerations and the need for coordination of efforts, for personnel to institute and conduct prevention programs, for legislation and governmental funding to support the programs, and for physical fitness programs to accommodate disabled persons to prevent further deterioration. A number of federal programs that contain prevention activities are described, such as maternal and child health programs, programs of the National Institutes of Health, and programs legislated under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. A national plan to prevent disabilities is outlined with specific strategies in the areas of pregnancy, infant health, immunization, toxic agent control, occupational safety and health, smoking, nutrition, etc. The paper concludes with the recommendation that the Federal Government mount such a comprehensive national program. Twenty-three references are listed. (JDD)