Raising Awareness of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Through Music: The ‘Aria di Vita’ Campaign
Rome, March 25, 2026 – A new awareness campaign, “Aria di Vita – and it’s Music for People with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension,” launched today in Rome, aims to give voice to the experiences of individuals living with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) through the universal language of music. The campaign is promoted by MSD Italia, with the patronage of AIPI – the Italian Pulmonary Hypertension Association, and AMIP – the Association of Pulmonary Hypertension Patients.
Understanding Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare, progressive, and disabling disease affecting a vital function: breathing. Approximately 3,500 people in Italy live with PAH, with women being disproportionately affected. Individuals with PAH experience dyspnea, or shortness of breath, and a constant sensation of air hunger.
“Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a condition characterized by increased blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries, placing significant strain on the right side of the heart,” explains Roberto Badagliacca, associate professor and head of the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit at Sapienza University/Policlinico Umberto I – Rome. Diagnosis is often delayed, sometimes by more than two years, due to non-specific symptoms like dyspnea and fatigue, which can mimic other cardiac or pulmonary conditions. Early diagnosis is crucial for timely management and optimal therapeutic intervention.
The ‘Aria di Vita’ Campaign: A Musical Expression of PAH
At the heart of the “Aria di Vita” campaign is an original musical composition by Maestro Enrico Melozzi, a cellist, composer, and conductor. Through music, Melozzi aims to capture the experiences, thoughts, and emotions of those living with PAH.
An installation titled “Note di vita” was unveiled during the launch event. This installation features a large saxophone, created using 3D printing, representing one of the main instruments used in Melozzi’s composition. The saxophone will travel to Rome, Bologna, and Milan, where the public can listen to the music and learn more about PAH through informational content.
Patient Advocacy and Support
The campaign actively involves patient associations AIPI and AMIP, which have long supported individuals with PAH. Vittorio Vivenzio, President of AMIP, emphasizes that PAH “is a pathology that often remains invisible to the eyes of others – but which has a profound impact on the daily lives of patients.” Marika Gattus, a member of the AIPI board of directors, notes that for those living with PAH, “breathing is a daily achievement,” and the path to diagnosis and treatment can be long and complex.
MSD Italia’s Commitment
Nicoletta Luppi, president and managing director of MSD Italia, underscores the company’s commitment to raising awareness and providing accurate information about PAH. “When science meets music – she observes – a communication is born that not only informs, but inspires action.” MSD Italia aims to ensure timely and effective access to therapeutic innovations for those living with PAH.
Campaign Schedule and Resources
The “Aria di Vita” campaign began in Rome, with the “Note di vita” saxophone on display at Termini Station from March 27-29. It will then move to Bologna (April 3-5, Piazza Galvani) and Milan (April 10-12, Piazza Elsa Morante in City Life).
The complete musical piece and additional resources are available on MSD Italia’s social channels and the dedicated “Informati per la vita” website: https://informatiperlavita.msdsalute.it/
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