"Screening for Change: Early Risk Detection and Integrated Prevention for Diabetes and Cardiovascular Diseases in the Marche Region"

This study aims to test the feasibility of a new systematic screening program to allow the early detection of individuals aged 50 years at risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in the resident in the province of Ascoli Piceno and without previous diagnosis, using the CUORE and FINDRISDC tools developed in the Project.

The intervention will be conducted at the premises of the Prevention Department in Ascoli Piceno and San Benedetto del Tronto, within the Local Health Authority of Ascoli Piceno (Marche Region, Italy), throughout 2026.

Eligible individuals will be invited, based on recruitment criteria, to the screening via a letter containing study information and participation instructions. Those willing to participate will book the appointment to undergo the screening in one of the two premises of the Prevention Department involved in the study (namely, San Benedetto del Tronto and Ascoli Piceno), through the regional reservation system (CUP). On the scheduled date, participants will visit the Prevention Department, where healthcare professionals (HCPs) will explain the study, obtain the informed consent, and collect data related to the CUORE and/or FINDRISC questionnaires, as well as sociodemographic information. The calculated scores will determine the 10-year risks of T2DM and major CVD events. Based on these risks, participants will be provided with tailored suggested pathways. A summary letter outlining these pathways will be delivered, and, in case of consent, results will be added to the participants' Electronic Health Record. Follow-up calls will be scheduled at 3 (T1) and 6 (T2) months to assess adherence to the suggested pathway (e.g., visit the General Practitioner (GP), lifestyle counselling) through a phone call.