On June 16th and 17th, 2025, Naples hosted the General States of Prevention at the Stazione Marittima venue. This well-attended and meaningful event brought the importance of prevention throughout the entire life course to the forefront of public debate.
With over 2,000 participants, 178 speakers, 11 professional associations, and 43 scientific societies represented, the two-day event promoted by the Ministry of Health brought together representatives from healthcare institutions, research, academia, the third sector, and active citizenship. It served as a true laboratory for sharing proposals, evidence, and experiences.
Opened by President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella, the proceedings were inaugurated by Minister of Health Orazio Schillaci, who emphasized the need to decisively invest in prevention to ensure the sustainability and future of our National Health Service. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also participated via videolink, followed by the Presidents of the State-Regions Conference and of the Campania and Lazio Regions.
Among the most significant moments was the address by Professor Alberto Mantovani, who highlighted how research and prevention—from vaccinations to screenings—are the pillars of an equitable and sustainable health system. Another key moment was the presentation by Dr. Maria Rosaria Campitiello (Head of the Department for Prevention, Research, and Health Emergencies at the Ministry of Health) of the project for the National Prevention Hub.
The main topics addressed included:
– prevention throughout the entire life course, with a focus on schools, lifestyles, and childhood obesity;
– the strengthening of cancer screening programs to increase informed participation among the population;
– the promotion of digital innovation in healthcare: artificial intelligence, telemedicine, and the Electronic Health Record (EHR);
– the adoption of a One Health approach to promote an integrated vision of prevention;
– the need to reduce territorial inequalities;
– the recognition of prevention as a strategic asset, a common good, and a strategic lever—not merely an expenditure item.
Acting as a bridge between institutions and citizens, the Prevention Village offered informational activities and free screenings open to the public: a tangible sign of closeness to communities and individuals.
In this context, we hope that the General States will become a permanent fixture—a laboratory for public policy and innovation, fully aligned with the trajectories of Mission 6 of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP).
The DARE Foundation participated with strong commitment, contributing a project aimed at building a new paradigm of health: digital, ethical, inclusive, and sustainable. A large delegation from the Foundation and project researchers attended both days with great interest, aspiring to pool together scientific evidence and digital technologies currently under development.
In a context marked by an aging population, an increase in chronic conditions and health inequalities, we believe it is time to move beyond a reactive approach to disease and adopt a systemic vision of health. We are committed to anticipating needs, strengthening proactive healthcare, and enhancing the active role of communities in building collective well-being.
In line with the One Health principle and alongside institutions, we are committed to making prevention a driver of cultural, social, and economic development.
For us, participation in the General States is not an endpoint, but the beginning of a shared journey: a space for listening, co-design, and collective responsibility, where health becomes a strategic lever for a fairer, more resilient, and community-oriented future.
