Parkinson Italia supports an initiative focusing on Parkinson’s prevention

Parkinson Italia, a network of 30 associations supporting patients and caregivers in Italy, has partnered with the Prada Foundation to promote early treatment and prevention of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s. The initiative, Preserving the Brain: A Call to Action, launched in the fall with a two-day scientific conference, Prevention of Neurodegenerative Diseases, and continues with an exhibition and related events in Milan through April 7. The campaign brings together researchers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and patient organizations to highlight the importance of brain health and raise awareness of Parkinson’s symptoms beyond its well-known motor effects. Challenging Misconceptions About Parkinson’s Giangi Milesi, president of Parkinson Italia and a person living with Parkinson’s, emphasized the need to challenge misconceptions about the disease. He noted that Parkinson’s involves a range of nonmotor symptoms that often go unrecognized. The campaign aims to showcase the varied experiences of patients while emphasizing resilience and the pursuit of personal goals. Sharing Real Stories to Show the Complexity of Parkinson’s As part of the initiative, Parkinson Italia hosted a December event featuring personal stories of four individuals with Parkinson’s, roundtable discussions on early diagnosis, and conversations about the impact of the disease on daily life. The event stressed the importance of community and family support, as well as the need for holistic care that addresses both physical and emotional aspects of Parkinson’s. A key element of the campaign, Parkinson’s Disease: A Disease That Is 100 Diseases, was launched on Italy’s National Parkinson’s Day (Nov. 30). It features real-life stories that illustrate the complexity of the disease. Created by Roberto Caselli, a Milan-based copywriter with Parkinson’s, and art director Elisa Roncoroni, the campaign aims to break stereotypes and highlight patient resilience. Addressing Risk Factors for Neurodegenerative Diseases The initiative also highlights the role of modifiable risk factors in neurodegenerative diseases, emphasizing the impact of environmental pollutants, diet, sleep quality, and physical activity. It advocates for environmental protection, healthy living, and educational outreach to help reduce the risk of Parkinson’s and other neurological conditions. Insights from the Prada Foundation’s Scientific Conference The Prada Foundation’s conference, organized in collaboration with research institutions and patient groups, focused on strategies for brain health protection. Key topics included genetic and environmental risk factors, the role of artificial intelligence in disease prevention, and how biological markers can help detect conditions early. A roundtable discussion brought together representatives from patient organizations, health authorities, universities, and the pharmaceutical industry to discuss challenges and priorities in disease prevention. Interactive Exhibition and Public Engagement An ongoing exhibition presents key findings from the conference, combining scientific materials with interactive visitor activities. In addition to the exhibition, eight patient-led events feature guided tours, workshops, panel discussions, theatrical performances, and film screenings. These activities aim to foster engagement and raise awareness about Parkinson’s and brain health.