by Roberta Imbimbo

For over fifty years, Mery Private School has been an educational and social pillar in the heart of Giugliano in Campania. Founded on an inclusive, student-centered pedagogical vision, the Institute has grown alongside its local community, becoming a trusted reference point for hundreds of families. Today, Mery School offers a unified educational path that spans both kindergarten and primary school, ensuring continuity and methodological coherence.
“The student is at the center of our educational mission,” explains School Director Giovanni Botta. “We accompany each child from the very beginning, creating a personalized path that values their talents, inclinations, and dreams. At Mery, we don’t just educate competent students, but free, aware, and responsible individuals.”

Mr. Botta, Mery Private School is one of the most established educational institutions in Giugliano. What’s the secret to such longevity?

Our strength comes from deep roots: clear educational principles, an inclusive approach, and a constant focus on the evolution of society. In over half a century of work, Mery School has remained true to its identity, blending experience with the needs of modern education. We operate as a single educational path from kindergarten through primary, offering a consistent and progressive experience. The quality of our programs is matched by constant attention to the well-being of each child.
Our tailored approach is supported by qualified, attentive, and motivated teachers who are able to meet individual needs and support each child’s growth. Beyond core subjects, we invest heavily in workshops, language activities, cultural projects, and cross-disciplinary initiatives that enrich the educational journey. Our goal? To shape not only competent students, but conscious citizens, ready to face today’s world with responsibility and critical thinking.

A key figure in this shared vision, from the very beginning, has been your mother, Dr. Teresa Pirozzi, now the School’s Educational Coordinator.

My mother is the beating heart of Mery School. She has always overseen the educational coordination of both kindergarten and primary with passion and dedication. Her attentive eye, her ability to listen to families, and her leadership in guiding teachers with both firmness and balance have been — and continue to be — fundamental to our school’s growth.
She has carried forward a model based on respect, inclusion, and trust. If Mery School is what it is today, we owe much — if not most — of it to her tireless commitment.
In a setting like ours, where early childhood and primary education coexist and communicate, her role is even more crucial: she builds bridges, ensures smooth transitions between school stages, and coordinates cross-curricular projects with a holistic vision that blends experience and innovation.
This synergy ensures a calm, natural progression for students, promoting emotional security and continuity. Above all, it sustains the School’s identity as a true educational community rooted in authentic relationships. That’s why we can say, with complete conviction: without her, the rhythm and soul of our school would not be the same.

Located in the heart of Giugliano, Mery School has always seen its role not only as a place of learning but as a true civic and social mission.

Absolutely. Our educational work is deeply intertwined with the local community. We collaborate closely with public institutions, cultural associations, non-profits, and other schools to develop meaningful, impactful learning experiences.
From environmental education and legal awareness projects to theater workshops and arts initiatives, our school is a dynamic space — open to the world, yet deeply rooted in its territory.
In a context often marked by instability and fragmentation, Mery School remains a reliable reference point. A place where quality teaching, inclusion, and innovation go hand in hand, restoring full meaning to the educational role.
Here, it’s not just about teaching — it’s about guiding the growth of conscious, independent individuals ready to be protagonists of their time.
In an educational landscape often marked by uncertainty, we want to continue being a source of trust for families: a safe, nurturing place where education and care walk together, and where every child can grow with confidence, serenity, and true inspiration.

For more information: scuolamery3@libero.it

The Human Papillomavirus, more commonly known as HPV, is the most widespread sexually transmitted infection in industrialized countries. According to recent estimates, around 80% of sexually active individuals contract the virus at least once in their lives, with the highest prevalence among young adults—both men and women. Widely recognized as the primary cause of cervical cancer, HPV is also linked to other genital cancers as well as head and neck cancers. Transmission mainly occurs through direct contact with mucous membranes or bodily fluids, but it can also happen indirectly via microscopic skin lesions. It is essential to emphasize that contracting HPV does not automatically mean developing lesions or cancer. In most cases (around 70% within one year and 90% within two years), the infection resolves spontaneously thanks to the immune system. However, what makes HPV particularly dangerous is its ability to remain in the body silently. Precancerous lesions may appear even five years after the initial infection, and progression to invasive cancer can take decades. It is precisely during this long latency period that prevention plays a crucial role. To explore the topics of diagnosis, vaccination, and treatment, we spoke with Dr. Cinzia Tomasos, a renowned gynecologist in Naples who has long been committed to raising awareness about sexual and oncological health.

By Roberta Imbimbo

Dr. Tomasos, why is it still so important to talk about HPV today?
Despite medical advances and numerous awareness campaigns, HPV continues to be widely underestimated, especially among young people. In reality, it is an extremely common and insidious sexually transmitted infection that spreads easily and remains entirely asymptomatic in most cases. Symptoms typically appear only in advanced stages of the disease. To date, nearly 200 HPV strains have been identified, but about 20 of them are considered high-risk for cancer. These are capable of penetrating cells and, if they persist in the tissues for long periods—between 7 and 15 years—they can trigger cancerous transformations. However, I want to stress that contracting HPV does not automatically mean becoming ill. In the vast majority of cases—especially in young individuals with healthy immune systems—the body can eliminate the virus spontaneously, often within a few months or years, without causing any clinically relevant effects. The greatest risk arises when the infection—especially from high-risk strains like HPV 16 and 18—becomes chronic in a silent form. In such cases, the virus can gradually alter the DNA of epithelial cells, leading to precancerous lesions (such as CIN—cervical intraepithelial neoplasia), which, if left untreated, may slowly develop into cancer over 10–15 years. That is why early prevention, regular screening, and vaccination are essential tools to detect the infection before it causes harm.

What prevention tools are available today?
We have two key tools: vaccination (which I believe should be mandatory) and screening. The HPV vaccine, which now protects against up to nine viral strains, is safe and effective if administered before exposure to the virus, ideally between the ages of 11 and 14. For girls up to 26 and boys up to 18, the vaccine is entirely free of charge. Screening is mainly based on two tests: the Pap smear and the HPV-DNA test. The Pap test is usually performed every two years, especially for women between 25 and 29, when the likelihood of infection is higher. After age 30, the HPV-DNA test is recommended, as it is more sensitive and can detect the virus directly. However, it’s important to note that no test is foolproof. In rare cases, false negatives may occur, meaning the test fails to detect abnormalities even if an infection or precancerous lesion is present. That’s why it’s essential to follow recommended screening schedules and, most importantly, to see a specialist regularly—even when test results seem normal.

What role do men play in prevention?
A central one. HPV prevention is no longer just a women’s responsibility. Vaccinating boys is essential to reduce transmission and protect both sexes. Additionally, men must be informed about risks and symptoms and seek medical advice if they notice suspicious lesions.

Is the vaccine safe and effective?
Absolutely! I want to highlight how effective the HPV vaccine is—it has been tested for decades and offers protection against nine types of HPV, seven of which are cancer-causing and two responsible for genital warts. The cancer-causing types account for over 90% of cervical cancers, 80% of anal cancers, and about 20% of throat cancers. Vaccination, of course, does not eliminate an existing infection or treat a precancerous lesion, but it is critical in preventing HPV-related cancers—especially if administered before sexual activity begins. For optimal protection, two doses are required six months apart before age 15, and three doses for those over 15, spaced by at least six months.

Let’s talk about treatment: what can someone diagnosed with HPV expect today?
It depends on the type of infection and whether lesions are present. In most cases, the infection clears up on its own. If precancerous lesions (CIN 1, CIN 2, or CIN 3) are detected, they can be treated with minimally invasive outpatient procedures such as LEEP or conization. In cases where cancer is present, appropriate oncology protocols are followed, often in collaboration with radiation therapists and oncologists.

What is still needed to improve prevention?
More information—especially in schools, among parents, and general practitioners. Unfortunately, cultural biases and unfounded fears about the vaccine still exist. We must also emphasize including boys in vaccination programs and promote screening among older age groups. Only in this way can we truly reduce the burden of HPV-related disease. Today, we have all the tools needed to prevent this virus—we just have to use them. Getting vaccinated, staying informed, and undergoing regular check-ups means protecting yourself and others from a silent but avoidable threat.

This is one of the new frontiers in regenerative medicine, earning Dr. Marco Cosimi, a proctologic surgeon from Rome, the title of “Proctology Excellence of the Year 2025” in the Healthcare & Pharma category of the Le Fonti Awards. This prestigious award honors excellence in the fields of professional services, consulting, and business. The XV edition was held on March 13 at Palazzo Mezzanotte in Piazza Affari, Milan.

Dr. Cosimi, what are the current clinical indications for using mesenchymal stem cells in proctology?
Regenerative therapy using autologous mesenchymal stem cells now offers a definitive and painless therapeutic solution for treating significant and uncomfortable proctological conditions. Thanks to their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, mesenchymal stem cells can rapidly eliminate pain and local inflammation even in complex cases such as anal fissures. At the same time, they repair damaged tissue without leaving scars — only biologically healthy cells, collagen, and elastin from the patient remain. This also reduces potential complications commonly associated with surgical interventions. These stem cells are harvested from the patient themself and have shown remarkable results in the treatment of painful and inflammatory disorders such as anal fissures, anal fistulas, and sacrococcygeal fistulas (https://metodocosimi.it/fistole/). Their reparative action is also mediated through signaling via microvesicles known as exosomes, which release bioactive factors into the affected tissue and bloodstream. This triggers a biological healing response in the body and stimulates local replication of additional mesenchymal stem cells that further aid in repairing the damaged area.

Does the outpatient procedure cause pain for the patient?
The harvesting of mesenchymal stem cells is a simple and painless procedure. A modest liposuction of approximately 50–60 ml of subcutaneous fat tissue is performed through a tiny skin incision, without the need for stitches. The fat is aspirated with a microcannula, targeting the microscopic stem cells present among the larger fat cells, which are destroyed and removed using sterile techniques. Only the liquid stem cell suspension — not the adipocytes (fat cells) — is injected into the lesion that requires healing. This technique is truly minimally invasive, allowing the proctologist to effectively treat even large, deep, and chronic anal fissures, anal fistulas, or sacrococcygeal fistulas in a single session, without scarring or postoperative pain. Mesenchymal stem cells have a natural biological anti-inflammatory and analgesic action, and the procedure is performed under local anesthesia, with no need for hospitalization or even a day hospital.

How do mesenchymal stem cells work once injected?
Once injected into the lesion, mesenchymal stem cells begin working immediately to reduce inflammation and relieve pain, rapidly promoting tissue healing. This is particularly useful in painful anal conditions such as anal fissures. Recent research has highlighted the importance of exosomes — microscopic particles that interact with tissues, delivering key bioactive segments of DNA and RNA. These are crucial in recognizing specific features of the local biological and anatomical damage and in stimulating healing and cellular homeostasis. Exosomes produced by stem cells can modulate local inflammation and pain while promoting tissue repair and enhancing the efficiency of cellular regeneration. By optimizing the natural effects of these exosomes — and amplifying their action using thermal and photonic stimulation directly applied to the stem cells after harvesting — regenerative proctology now holds the potential to revolutionize treatment, enabling faster healing of many proctologic disorders with highly targeted and less invasive approaches.

What is the future of Regenerative Proctology?
Thanks to advances in medical and scientific research, these techniques have become a cornerstone of both regenerative medicine and proctology, delivering rapid and satisfactory results to patients. Mesenchymal stem cells and their exosomes now offer a stable and pain-free outpatient treatment path, even for complex and painful proctological diseases, eliminating the need for invasive surgery and avoiding surgical complications. In conclusion, the regenerative approach using autologous mesenchymal stem cells and exosomes represents a major breakthrough in modern proctology. These effective, non-invasive treatments allow patients to quickly resume daily activities while ensuring high-quality care, particularly for those suffering from anal fissures, anal or perianal fistulas, and sacrococcygeal fistulas.

For more information: metodocosimi.it · youtube.com/@metodocosimi · info@metodocosimi.it

For over 50 years, the Institute has stood as a model of education that combines high-quality teaching, deep community roots, and a strong bond with families. In an era where the Italian school system faces constant change and complex challenges, there are institutions that not only withstand this evolution but lead it with vision, dedication, and passion. One such example is the Scuola Paritaria Mery in Giugliano in Campania—a school that for over half a century has been distinguished by the quality of its educational offering and by its irreplaceable role in the local community. Founded with the mission of providing a complete, inclusive, and person-centered education, Scuola Paritaria Mery is today a benchmark for parents and students seeking an environment where academic excellence meets deep care for the individual.
“At the heart of our educational approach,” explains school principal Giovanni Botta, “are our students. Their growth goes far beyond acquiring theoretical knowledge—it involves their entire human dimension: their talents, their vulnerabilities, and their dreams. Each educational path is personalized, tailored to the uniqueness of every child.”

By Roberta Imbimbo

Mr. Botta, Scuola Paritaria Mery is one of the longest-standing educational institutions in Giugliano. What is the secret behind this longevity?

Our strength lies in solid pedagogical values and a modern, inclusive educational vision. Over the course of more than fifty years, Scuola Paritaria Mery has established itself as an educational leader in the region, making a meaningful contribution to the cultural and social development of new generations. We’ve succeeded in harmonizing traditional teaching principles with innovative methodologies, always keeping students’ well-being and personal growth at the center. Beyond the high quality of our academic programs, what truly sets us apart is the attention we devote to each individual. We tailor learning paths to highlight each student’s abilities, interests, and uniqueness. Our teachers are highly qualified and deeply motivated: they teach with passion and with constant sensitivity to the evolving educational needs of our community, identifying and nurturing the potential in every student. In addition to core academic subjects, we promote lab-based activities, cultural projects, and language and social programs that enrich each child’s educational journey. Our goal is to prepare more conscious, capable, and competent citizens—ready to meet the challenges of today’s world.

How important is collaboration with families to your school?

It’s essential. A truly effective school stems from open, ongoing dialogue with parents. Educating together means building a strong support network around children—based on consistency, trust, and mutual support. Active family involvement strengthens our school community and helps create a welcoming, attentive, and stimulating environment. A school cannot be an isolated island; it must serve as a bridge between family life and society. Only in this way can we prepare young people to face tomorrow’s challenges with competence and responsibility.

Located in the heart of Giugliano, your school has always played more than just an educational role—it also serves a civic and social function.

Absolutely. Our collaboration with local authorities, cultural associations, and other educational organizations is ongoing and intentional, aimed at offering students meaningful and real opportunities for growth. Environmental initiatives, projects focused on civic responsibility and legality, theatrical and cultural activities—our school is a laboratory open to the world, while remaining firmly rooted in the local community. In an educational landscape often marked by uncertainty, Scuola Paritaria Mery stands as a virtuous example—a place where quality, inclusion, and innovation come together, giving renewed meaning to the educational mission. A school that does not simply aim to instruct, but to shape free, conscious individuals who are ready to contribute meaningfully to the future of our country.

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📧 For more information: scuolamery3@libero.it
📘 Facebook: Scuola Paritaria Mery
📍 Via F. Frezza, 78 – Giugliano in Campania
📞 Tel. 081 5063763