Tackling dementia at regional level: Trends, risk factors, and policy strategies from Lombardy, Italy

This thesis investigated dementia as a public health challenge in Lombardy, Italy, with the aim of supporting better prevention and care policies. Using routinely collected regional health records, it described how dementia cases, deaths, and hospital admissions changed over time in a population of millions of people. The thesis also explored whether severe shingles infection may be linked to a higher risk of developing dementia, because this could point to new opportunities for prevention. In addition, it compared dementia prevention strategies in five European countries to identify useful lessons for policymakers. Overall, the research showed how existing health data can help regions understand the real impact of dementia, plan services more effectively, and identify groups who may need greater support. By combining evidence on trends, risk factors, and policy approaches, this thesis provided practical knowledge to help regional health systems respond to dementia in a more informed and sustainable way.