The burden of disease in Italy, 1990-2023: a subnational analysis from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2023 - PubMed

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Life expectancy (LE) and health-adjusted life expectancy (HALE) increased in Italy from 1990 to 2023, despite a temporary decline due to COVID-19.
Regional disparities exist, with the North-East having the highest LE (81.4 years for males, 85.8 years for females) and the Islands the lowest (79.7 years for males, 84.2 years for females).
Years Lived with Disability (YLDs) rose due to aging and chronic conditions, while Years of Life Lost (YLLs) declined, driven by reduced mortality from neoplasms and cardiovascular diseases.
In 2023, ischemic heart disease was the leading cause of all-age DALYs in males, while Alzheimer's disease topped the list for females.
Anxiety disorders became the leading cause of age-standardized DALYs in females, showing significant increases since 1990.
Despite overall health improvements, disability burden rose, especially among women, and geographical and sex-based inequalities persist.
Key recommendations include strengthening prevention policies, addressing risk factors, improving long-term care, and promoting healthy aging to reduce disparities.

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