The #1 cause of death in Italy are circulatory diseases, which include stroke and coronary heart disease.
In Italy, cardiovascular diseases or circulatory diseases are the #1 leading cause of death in Italy, which accounts for over 30 percent of all deaths in Italy.
The 2nd leading cause of death in Italy are malignant neoplasms, "cancers, with the lung cancer being the primary driver" of deaths in Italy.
And the 3rd leading cause of death in Italy are respiratory diseases.
During the outbreak of COVID-19, COVID-19 was a leading cause of death in Italy, but not so much now.
Italy, has a high life expectancy, although Italy's aging demographic makes the cardiovascular and circulatory disorders the predominant health burden on Italy.
Italy also operates a universal, tax-funded public healthcare system known as the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN).
Italy's universal, tax funded public healthcare system, guarantees essential medical care to all citizens and legal residents.
While the national government sets baseline care standards, healthcare delivery is heavily decentralized and managed regionally.
Funded primarily through general taxation, the SSN provides free or very low-cost access to healthcare.
Enrollees must register with a primary care doctor who acts as the first point of contact and provides referrals to specialists.
While GP appointments are free, patients often pay a small co-payment for specialist visits, diagnostic tests, and certain prescription medications.
Vulnerable populations, such as low-income individuals, children, and seniors, are often exempt.
Emergency services (Pronto Soccorso) and ambulance rides are provided free of charge, though triage-based co-pays may apply for non-emergencies.