[Prevention of the health effects of air pollution: intersectorial political strategies for adopting the National Health Plan].

Thirty to 40% of European citizens are exposed to air pollution levels above EU standards. Recent epidemiological studies, both in Italy and elsewhere, have shown that excess mortality and morbidity may occur in relation to air pollutant concentrations below current standards. EU is trying to work out a strategy of interventions for the reduction of air pollution. Italian policies in the field of air quality have been fragmentary. However, the Italian National Health Plan (NHP) 1998-2000 aims at: 1) contrasting the current division between health and environmental policies; 2) giving priority to a renewed focus on prevention; 3) improving a strict cooperation to solve the problem. A specific aim of the NHP consists in the reduction of private vehicular traffic. In conclusion, an integrated strategy of international, national and local policies is needed, based on a wide information exchange among risk evaluators and decision-makers. Likewise, strong efforts in communicating scientific evidences and public health policies to the large public are needed, in order to elicit an active participation to environmental control interventions.