At the SIP 2025 Congress, pediatricians raise the alarm: children’s health must not depend on where they are born
Italy’s children grow up at different speeds
“The future is built in the earliest years of life,” but in Italy, not all children have the same opportunities. That’s the core message from the 80th Congress of the Italian Society of Pediatrics (SIP), held in Naples. According to President Rino Agostiniani, it’s unacceptable that a child’s ZIP code matters more than their genetic code in determining access to healthcare. Even President Sergio Mattarella recently called for unified strategies to eliminate unacceptable disparities between regional health systems.
Fewer children, more fragile and unequal
Italy is having fewer and fewer children—and investing little in those who are born. Scientific evidence shows that health is shaped during the first 1,000 days: pregnancy plus the first two years of life. During this time, poverty, pollution, diet and lifestyle habits leave a lasting mark. Yet access to essential services like newborn screening and RSV prophylaxis still depends on the region in which a child is born.
Malnutrition and obesity: two sides of the same coin
Over 1.3 million children live in absolute poverty in Italy. Meanwhile, 30% of kids are overweight or obese—with peaks of 44% in Campania. From skipping breakfast to lacking safe play areas or daycare centers that provide balanced meals, many children are at risk. The SIP highlights the North-South divide: in Trentino, obesity is under 7%, but in Sicily, it’s more than double.
Anxiety, isolation, digital addiction: the silent epidemic
Mental health is another front of inequality. According to WHO, 1 in 7 teens suffers from mental disorders, with suicide now the fourth leading cause of death among 15–19-year-olds. In Italy, about 2 million minors face behavioral disorders, but services are lacking—especially in the South and rural areas. “This new fragility stems from digital dependence and parental distress,” says Agostiniani. Pediatricians are key to identifying and addressing these issues early.
Prevention is the best cure—but Italy underinvests
Only 5% of Italy’s national health fund is allocated to prevention, compared to 10–12% in countries like Germany and the Netherlands. Yet 1 in 3 deaths is preventable. Every euro spent on prevention saves up to 16. Still, 54% of schools lack a proper gym, just 42% of teens are vaccinated against HPV, and 27% of 15-year-olds smoke. Investing in childhood health is both an ethical and economic imperative.
AI, new drugs and vaccines: the future is now
The Congress also explores the growing role of artificial intelligence in pediatrics, from early diagnostics to customized treatment plans. Innovations such as RSV universal prophylaxis, combined therapies for myopia, and new obesity drugs will be showcased. But, as Agostiniani warns, these tools must be made available everywhere, not just in select regions or hospitals.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why does a child’s birthplace affect their health?
Because healthcare services in Italy are uneven—some regions offer more advanced care than others.
2. What are the “first 1,000 days”?
The period from conception through the second year of life, essential for long-term health.
3. What is RSV prophylaxis?
Preventative treatment against a virus that can cause serious respiratory illness in infants.
4. How widespread is childhood obesity in Italy?
It affects about 30% of children, with regional peaks over 40%.
5. What are the main health inequalities?
Access to screenings, treatments, mental health services, and even school infrastructure.
6. How much does Italy spend on prevention?
Only 5% of its health budget—well below the European average.
7. What can pediatricians do?
Detect early warning signs and guide families to appropriate care.
8. What new treatments are being presented?
AI applications, RSV vaccines, anti-obesity drugs, and eye therapies.
9. Are mental health issues in kids rising?
Yes, with around 2 million minors affected and many unable to access proper care.
10. What actions are needed now?
Greater investment in childhood, equitable healthcare, and strong political commitment.
Leave a Reply