Cardiovascular prevention and aging autonomy in Italy

In observance of World Heart Day, health data highlights the critical importance of lifestyle choices in maintaining autonomy during aging. In Italy, while a 65-year-old can expect approximately 20 years of life, the number of years lived without physical limitations varies significantly. According to ISTAT, men can expect 10.6 years of autonomy, while women expect 10.3 years.

Regional disparities are evident in both life quality and lifestyle habits. Residents in Northwest Italy can expect 11.8 years of active life, compared to 8.8 years in the Islands. Furthermore, sedentary behavior is more prevalent in southern regions, where nearly 48% of those over 65 are inactive, compared to 32% in the North.

Medical experts emphasize that approximately 80% of cardiac events are preventable. Key recommendations from cardiologists include smoking cessation, following a Mediterranean diet with limited salt intake, and engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week. Monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels is also vital. To support prevention, over 150 hospitals in the Bollino Rosa network are participating in an awareness week focused on cardiovascular diseases.