Today marks a turning point in global obesity policy: Italy has become the first country to enshrine in law the recognition of obesity as a chronic, recurring disease. ECPO warmly applauds this decision and believes it can chart a course for countries across Europe and beyond.
Why this legal recognition matters
Obesity is more than excess weight it is a complex condition involving metabolic, hormonal, environmental, genetic, psychological, and social factors. Without formal recognition, many health systems treat it as a personal issue or lifestyle choice rather than a chronic health challenge demanding structured, long-term care.
ECPO President Diana Castillo emphasised:
“The Italian Parliament’s approval of the first ever law on obesity is a landmark step. By recognising obesity as a chronic, recurring disease, it affirms the reality faced by millions, ensures it is treated like other chronic conditions, and sends a clear signal on dignity, rights, and access to equitable quality treatment and management.”
ECPO Executive Director added:
“Italy has set an important precedent by becoming the first European country to enshrine in law that obesity is a chronic, recurring disease. This milestone should inspire other governments to act together and address obesity as a shared European epidemic. Now is the time for countries across Europe to follow Italy’s example, ensuring that people living with obesity everywhere have equal access to quality, affordable treatment and management.”
Iris Zani, President of Amici Obesi, said:
“As President of Amici Obesi, I express great satisfaction with the final approval of Law No. 741, the ‘Pella Law,’ the first law in the world dedicated to obesity.
This is a historic step that finally recognises the dignity, rights, and needs of people loiving with obesity. It is a positive message, breaking down stigma and paving the way for profound cultural and healthcare change.
Our commitment will now be to fully implement the law’s six key points, so that no one will ever feel alone on their health journey again.”
Eligio Linoci, President of La Mattina Dopo APS, said:
“This has been a historic week for all people with obesity in Italy. It marks the approval of a landmark law, marking a turning point in the prevention and recognition of obesity as a disease.
For Italian patients, this is a first concrete step toward including obesity in the LEA (Essential Levels of Care), which will enable the implementation of more structured, appropriate, and robust care pathways to support those living with this condition.
As President of La Mattina Dopo, I can only express my deep satisfaction with this decisive decision by the Italian Government. This is a step forward that concerns us all, because we will all benefit from it.”
Italy’s bold step demonstrates that recognising obesity as a disease in law is not just symbolic — it can be a lever to transform care, shift stigma, and reshape health systems. For individuals living with obesity, it offers hope: that their health needs can no longer be dismissed. For other countries, Italy now offers a blueprint.