The screening programme for type 1 diabetes mellitus shall be implemented nationwide in Italy in 2025 with the goal of early identification of at-risk individuals through the detection of anti-beta cell autoantibodies. This study explored the knowledge, perceptions and preparedness of the primary care paediatricians in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region and revealed limited awareness of the screening programme among participants and a unanimous request for more information and training. While recognizing the potential benefits of screening, such as reducing the incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis at onset and enabling early interventions, paediatricians expressed concerns about increased anxiety among families, workload management and the need for defined follow-up protocols. The study highlights the importance of providing adequate educational tools, clear guidelines and organizational support to ensure the success of the screening programme. As the programme expands nationwide, further evaluations will be necessary to enhance paediatricians’ preparedness and engagement in this ambitious initiative.
