The Minister of Health, Orazio Schillaci, is determined to increase the number of Italians following the Mediterranean diet, calling it a “priority”. In an interview with the Messenger, Schillaci expressed concern over the fact that only 5% of Italians adhere to the diet, despite its proven benefits in reducing mortality and preventing diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular issues.
Schillaci emphasized the importance of teaching correct lifestyles and nutrition in schools, starting from a young age. He proposed dedicating an hour a week to educating students on healthy eating habits and physical activities, similar to the way civic education was once taught. The Minister believes that investing in prevention and education is essential for creating a sustainable healthcare system in the long run.
To further promote the Mediterranean diet, Schillaci launched a guide with tips on following its principles, such as consuming seasonal and local products, reducing the intake of sugary foods, and opting for high-quality Italian products like extra virgin olive oil. He also highlighted the benefits of moderate wine consumption as part of a balanced diet.
In addressing the issue of long waiting lists for health services, Schillaci pledged to work towards merging public and private affiliates’ waiting lists to provide more options for citizens. He also emphasized the need to re-evaluate the appropriateness of medical tests to make the healthcare system more efficient and sustainable.
Furthermore, Schillaci plans to address the shortage of doctors and family physicians by offering specialized training programs and higher compensation during specialization, in hopes of attracting more young professionals to the field.
Overall, the Minister’s efforts focus on promoting a healthy lifestyle, improving access to healthcare services, and ensuring a sustainable healthcare system for all Italians to benefit from.