XLIX – Congress of the Italian Association of Epidemiology 2025

The 49th Congress of the Italian Association of Epidemiology (AIE) concludes today, April 11th, after bringing together in Salerno over 600 experts, researchers, healthcare professionals, and institutional representatives to discuss the role of epidemiology in a constantly evolving context. The title of this year’s edition, “Epidemiology between Contrasts and New Health Needs,” served as an invitation to reflect on the challenges facing our healthcare system, as well as the opportunities to make it more equitable, effective, and sustainable.

Hosted at the Grand Hotel Salerno, the Congress offered a rich and multidisciplinary program: scientific sessions, round tables, workshops, and networking moments allowed for vibrant and in-depth discussions on the most current public health issues. Topics included social and territorial inequalities, urban health, integration between public and private sectors, the impact of demographic and ecological transitions, and the evolution of epidemiological methodologies in response to emerging needs.

We are proud to have participated in this important event, contributing with a scientific paper on the Wellness Valley case—a concrete and replicable experience of promoting well-being through the enhancement of local territory, the activation of local communities, and the integration of best practices at an institutional level.

Beyond the scientific aspect, we also actively contributed to the Congress experience by symbolically bringing a splash of yellow to several initiatives aimed at combating physical inactivity—a growing concern in prevention. These included active breaks between sessions, walks, mindfulness sessions, and the unmissable OlimpiAIEdi—playful “Olympics” designed to encourage movement and well-being among participants.

This edition of the AIE Congress has been a valuable opportunity for us to strengthen our ties with the scientific community, listen to authoritative voices, share experiences and projects, and gather new insights to face our daily work with greater awareness.

We return from Salerno inspired, with new connections and the renewed enthusiasm to continue promoting a culture of health that truly includes everyone.