Rome, Italy – November 8, 2025 – Italy has witnessed a remarkable increase in its centenarian population, with more than 2,000 individuals reaching the milestone age of 100 in 2025 alone, according to data released by the national statistics agency Istat. The Guardian reported on Saturday that the total number of residents aged 100 or older now stands at 23,548, marking a significant rise from 21,211 recorded in 2024. This growth underscores a broader trend of extended longevity in the country, where the centenarian count has more than doubled since 2009.
The latest Istat figures highlight not only the absolute increase but also the demographic composition of this elderly cohort. Women dominate the group, comprising 82.6% of those turning 100 this year. This gender disparity extends to even older age brackets: among Italy's 724 semi-supercentenarians—individuals aged 105 to 109—and its 19 supercentenarians—those aged 110 or above—women continue to lead overwhelmingly. Experts attribute this to biological factors, such as women's generally stronger immune systems and lower rates of cardiovascular disease, combined with lifestyle and socioeconomic influences that have historically favored female longevity in Mediterranean cultures.
One standout figure in this year's data is Lucia Laura Sangenito, a resident of southern Campania. Sangenito is set to celebrate her 115th birthday on November 22, which will elevate her to the status of Italy's oldest woman and Europe's third oldest living person. She trails behind the United Kingdom's Ethel Caterham, who is 116 years old, and France's Marie-Rose Tessier, who marked her 115th birthday in May. Sangenito's impending milestone adds a personal narrative to the statistical surge, exemplifying the exceptional vitality achieved by a select few in Italy's aging population.
Italy's centenarian boom is part of a wider European phenomenon. Across the European Union, the number of people aged 100 or older is projected to approach half a million by 2050, a stark escalation from the 96,600 recorded in 2019. This forecast, derived from Eurostat projections, reflects improvements in healthcare, nutrition, and public health initiatives that have reduced mortality rates in later life. In Italy specifically, the Mediterranean diet—rich in olive oil, fruits, vegetables, and fish—has long been credited with contributing to longevity, alongside advancements in medical care for chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes.
Regionally, the distribution of centenarians in Italy reveals intriguing variations. The central region of Molise tops the list in terms of centenarians per capita, followed closely by the northern Aosta Valley and the coastal region of Liguria. Istat's per-population metrics show Molise with the highest density, a fact that intrigues demographers given the region's rural character and lower urbanization compared to industrial hubs like Lombardy or Veneto. Factors such as cleaner air, stronger community ties, and adherence to traditional diets may play a role in these areas. Liguria, known for its seaside communities and active lifestyles among the elderly, also benefits from a climate conducive to outdoor activities year-round. In contrast, southern regions like Campania, while home to notables like Sangenito, lag in relative terms due to higher historical poverty rates and varying access to healthcare.
The sharp rise since 2009—when Italy had fewer than 12,000 centenarians—can be traced to several key developments. Post-World War II baby boomers are now entering extreme old age, bolstered by Italy's universal healthcare system, which provides comprehensive coverage for preventive care and geriatric services. Vaccination programs, smoking reduction campaigns, and better management of age-related diseases have all contributed. Additionally, Italy's low fertility rate—currently around 1.2 children per woman—has shifted societal focus toward elder care, with policies supporting home assistance and nursing facilities.
This demographic shift poses both opportunities and challenges for Italian society. On the positive side, centenarians often serve as cultural touchstones, preserving oral histories and family traditions in a rapidly modernizing nation. Stories like Sangenito's inspire public health campaigns promoting healthy aging. However, the growing elderly population strains pension systems and healthcare resources. Italy already spends a significant portion of its GDP on pensions, and with life expectancy at birth now exceeding 83 years, policymakers are debating reforms to sustain these systems.
Comparatively, Italy ranks among the global leaders in centenarian density, alongside Japan and parts of Scandinavia. Japan's Okinawa region, famous for its "blue zone" of longevity, shares similarities with Italian hotspots in diet and social cohesion. In the EU context, countries like Spain and France are experiencing similar upticks, though Italy's numbers are particularly pronounced due to its large baseline population of older adults.
Istat's data collection involves meticulous verification through civil registries, birth certificates, and municipal records, ensuring accuracy. The agency cross-references with death records to maintain an up-to-date census. This year's report, released in conjunction with World Science Day for Peace and Development, emphasizes the role of scientific progress in extending human lifespan.
As Europe grapples with an aging continent, Italy's experience offers valuable insights. Projections indicate that by 2100, centenarians could number in the millions EU-wide if current trends persist. For now, the 2,000-plus Italians turning 100 in 2025 represent a triumph of modern medicine and lifestyle over the frailties of age.
The Guardian's coverage drew from Istat's preliminary 2025 dataset, which will be finalized early next year. Regional leaders in Molise and Liguria have welcomed the news, with local governments highlighting initiatives like senior wellness programs. In Campania, preparations for Sangenito's birthday include community events, underscoring the human element behind the statistics.
In summary, Italy's centenarian population has reached 23,548 in 2025, up from 21,211 the previous year, with over 2,000 new centenarians—mostly women. The count has doubled since 2009, led by regions like Molise, Aosta Valley, and Liguria. Lucia Laura Sangenito's upcoming 115th birthday positions her as a European longevity icon. This trend mirrors EU-wide growth, with centenarians expected to near 500,000 by 2050. These developments highlight advancements in health and diet while signaling future policy needs.
