14/04/2026
Relevance
The first 1,000 days of life represent a critical window for building each individual’s health capital, during which the foundations of present and future health and well-being are established.
The Conference provides an important opportunity to examine data on the prevalence of protective and risk behaviours, analyse current policies supporting best practices, and promote dialogue among stakeholders involved in the field of the first 1,000 days of life.
The Surveillance System for Children Aged 0–2 Years, promoted by the Ministry of Health and coordinated by the Italian National Institute of Health (Istituto Superiore di Sanità), and implemented in collaboration with the Regions and Autonomous Provinces, is among those of national interest identified by the Prime Ministerial Decree of 2017.
The day will open with a Lectio Magistralis by Professor Sir Michael Marmot, an internationally recognised authority in the study of health inequalities, who will provide an authoritative framework for reflecting on the role of services, communities, and public policies.
The results of the 2025 data collection of the Surveillance System will be presented. This system gathers population-based data from the preconception period up to two years of age, supporting the identification of intervention priorities and the development of public health policies. Data of interest emerging from distance learning activities conducted within the framework of the Surveillance System will also be disseminated.
During the Conference, the main components of the predefined programme on the first 1,000 days within the new National Prevention Plan 2026–2031 will be shared, together with an in-depth analysis of the equity dimension addressed in Prevention Plans.
In the afternoon session, experiences aimed at implementing best practices will be presented and discussed.
Aim and Objectives
To promote the dissemination of data on protective and risk factors during the first 1,000 days of life among professionals involved in safeguarding and promoting health during the prenatal period and early childhood.
Methods: Lectio Magistralis, presentations, and discussions.
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