On the basis of the recent directives emanated by the Italian Ministry of Health and on the indications of the WHO-World Health Organization, it has become essential that the public become aware of the importance of a healthy lifestyle in order to control the increase in obesity and cardiovascular disease. In fact, the new pathological trend which, unfortunately, is increasing dramatically in the industrialized nations is surely the combination of obesity with heart disease, especially within the younger population.

In this scenario the family doctor plays a leading role in educating and increasing the awareness of the general public regarding the enhancement of a healthy lifestyle.

The FIAeF - Federazione Italiana Aerobica e Fitness and FIMMG – Federazione Italiana Medici Medicina Generale have entered an agreement to implement a joint program to increase public awareness of the benefits of regular physical activity and proper nutrition. In virtue of this agreement the two federations are planning a national campaign for information and prevention called “Fitness = Move for Health” which will start on October 15^th, 2005 in Formia /LT.

The campaign is included within the WHO “Move for Health” initiatives and is accredited by the United Nations within the International Year of Sports and Physical Education. This project was conceived from the consideration that the proper exercise and the participation in fitness activities can help to prevent or reverse the development of heart disease, metabolic pathologies and musculoskeletal disorders. It is, however, necessary that the physical activity undertaken be supervised by qualified instructors and in any case accompanied by a healthy and balanced diet as well as a lifestyle which excludes dangerous behaviour such as smoking, excessive consumption of alcohol, pharmaceuticals and drug abuse.

Further aspects of the project include the activation of a call center and an internet website which will offer proper assistance to the consumer. A promotional campaign will also be implemented through all the media as well as the organization of important public events to properly inform and educate the public.

“Fitness = Move for Health©®” will surely have positive consequences for the population in terms of prevention and the defence of the right to health, and will certainly have a positive influence on the reduction of public spending regarding health matters.