Italy Officially Recognises Obesity as a Chronic Disease under New Law
Key Takeaways:
- Italy becomes the first country to officially recognise obesity as a chronic, progressive, and relapsing disease under national law.
- The new legislation ensures access to prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment through the National Health Service, supported by dedicated funding and professional training.
- The law marks a cultural and clinical milestone, combating stigma and embedding obesity care into multidisciplinary health and social policies.
A landmark in public health policy
Italy has taken a historic step forward in the recognition and treatment of obesity. Following final approval in the Senate, a new law formally recognises obesity as a chronic, progressive, and relapsing disease, fully incorporated within the National Health Service (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale, SSN). This recognition places obesity among the conditions requiring prevention, early diagnosis, and integrated care, marking a fundamental shift in how the nation addresses one of its most pervasive health challenges.
Until now, obesity—despite its well-documented health, social, and economic burden—was often perceived as an “individual problem” tied to lifestyle choices and personal responsibility. This new law redefines that narrative. It positions obesity as a medical condition requiring structured clinical and social support, thereby recognising the biological, psychological, and environmental factors that contribute to it.
Leadership and legislative consensus
The legislation was spearheaded by Hon. Roberto Pella, President of the Interparliamentary Group on Obesity, Diabetes and Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), who has long advocated for stronger prevention policies, enhanced patient rights, and healthier urban environments.
The final version of the bill approved by the Senate mirrors that previously passed by the Chamber of Deputies, reflecting broad cross-party agreement on the urgent need to address obesity as a national health priority.
Key provisions of the law
The new law introduces a comprehensive framework of measures that address obesity through prevention, treatment, research, and social inclusion.
- Access to Essential Levels of Care (LEA): People living with obesity will now have guaranteed access to diagnostic and therapeutic services under the National Health Service, ensuring equitable treatment and continuity of care.
- National Programme for Prevention and Care: Dedicated funding will progressively increase from €700,000 in 2025, to €800,000 in 2026, and €1.2 million annually from 2027 onwards. These resources will support prevention campaigns, public awareness efforts, anti-stigma initiatives, and projects promoting social inclusion.
- Health Promotion: The law prioritises preventive health measures, including nutrition education in schools, support for breastfeeding, and programmes encouraging regular physical activity across all age groups.
- Social Inclusion: New provisions promote the full participation of people living with obesity in society—whether in the workplace, education, or recreation—by addressing structural barriers and discrimination.
- Training for Health Professionals: From 2025, €400,000 annually will be invested in training doctors, paediatricians, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals to improve clinical understanding of obesity and strengthen multidisciplinary care.
- National Observatory for the Study of Obesity (OSO): A new Observatory will be established within the Ministry of Health to oversee the implementation of the law. It will monitor outcomes, coordinate research, and present an annual report to Parliament, ensuring transparency and accountability.
- Awareness Campaigns: A permanent fund of €100,000 per year will support public initiatives promoting balanced nutrition and physical activity. Schools, pharmacies, physicians, and local authorities will play key roles in these campaigns.
Cultural and clinical significance
The adoption of this law represents a dual victory—both cultural and medical. Culturally, it challenges the long-standing stereotypes and stigma that have surrounded obesity, reframing it as a health condition rather than a personal failing. It acknowledges the dignity and rights of people living with obesity and underscores the need for inclusion and respect in both healthcare and everyday life.
Clinically, the law ensures equal access to prevention and treatment and formally integrates obesity into structured healthcare pathways. This institutional recognition paves the way for better coordination between medical professionals, community services, and social care systems.
A multidisciplinary and cross-sectoral approach
The reform promotes a multidisciplinary model of care, encompassing prevention, education, inclusion, and research. It also aligns obesity management with broader public health objectives, connecting healthcare policy with urban planning, education, and sport.
By mandating ongoing monitoring through the National Observatory and annual parliamentary reporting, the law ensures a strong framework for governance and sustained progress.
Towards broader change
As Hon. Roberto Pella’s leadership demonstrates, this legislation is not merely a symbolic step—it establishes a concrete foundation for long-term change. The next phase will involve implementing its provisions effectively, strengthening local prevention programmes, supporting patient associations, and fostering partnerships between healthcare providers, schools, and community organisations.
Obesity is not only a disease but also a reflection of how societies live, eat, and structure their environments. Italy’s new law acknowledges this complexity. It is a decisive move toward compassion, inclusion, and evidence-based care, ensuring that people living with obesity receive the attention, respect, and medical support they deserve.
