by Nina Vaclavikova
Interviews: Dr. Riccardo Candido, Director, Complex Unit of Diabetic Diseases, ASUGI; Caterina de Gavardo, Trieste City Councillor for Public Safety Policies; Elisa Lodi, Trieste City Councillor for Municipal Property and Sport
The three-day initiative will conclude in Piazza Unità d’Italia with free health screenings, educational activities and a community celebration of healthy living.
Trieste’s Piazza Unità d’Italia will serve as the finish line for “Diabete a Ruota Libera” on Sunday, Sept. 13, bringing a regional campaign focused on diabetes prevention, physical activity and public health to its conclusion.
Now in its fifth edition, the initiative combines cycling with health education, traveling through 13 cities across Friuli Venezia Giulia and Veneto over three days. Rather than a competitive race, the event is designed to encourage participation from people of all ages and abilities while promoting healthier lifestyles.
The campaign was presented at Trieste City Hall by municipal officials, healthcare professionals and representatives of regional diabetes associations, who described the project as a collaborative effort linking sport, social services and preventive medicine.
This year’s theme highlights the growing connection between obesity and Type 2 diabetes. Organizers cited regional data showing that obesity affects 11.3 percent of adults in Friuli Venezia Giulia and warned that increasing rates of overweight children have made early prevention a public health priority.
Throughout the afternoon, Piazza Unità will host free blood glucose and blood pressure checks, nutritional consultations and informational booths staffed by doctors, nurses and volunteers. The Red Cross, police and other public services will also participate with educational exhibits aimed at raising awareness of health and community safety.
The event also emphasizes accessibility. While experienced cyclists will complete stages ranging from 60 to 100 kilometers, residents can join shorter rides using traditional bicycles or e-bikes. A guided 6-kilometer walking route, organized in partnership with the “10,000 Steps of Health” program, offers an alternative way to participate.
By bringing together medicine, sport and community engagement, organizers hope the initiative will reinforce a simple message: preventing chronic disease begins with everyday choices, from regular exercise to balanced nutrition and greater awareness of metabolic health.
