Solid urban wastes and toxicity among residents of Ghemme and Cavaglio (Piedmont region, Italy). Results from a historical cohort 1980 to 2013.

BACKGROUND: There is plenty of evidence for a relation between certain environmental pollutants and ecological damage. Landfills, especially if uncontrolled and located near human settlements, may cause an increase in cancer incidence and in various diseases. METHODS: The area of study is represented by the cities of Ghemme (population 6,139) and Cavaglio (population 2,216), in the province of Novara, northern Italy. A solid urban waste landfill is located between these two cities. We analysed mortality data from 1980 to 2013 among subjects residing in the two cities since at least 6 months, according to distance from the landfill. Mortality data was obtained from the National Statistics Institute ( ISTAT). RESULTS: A mortality increase was shown, according to Cox model, in residential areas closer to the landfill. In Cavaglio D'Agogna the total number of cancer deaths occurring in the 0-44 age group and the total death causes were relevant. A significant increase in leukemia cases was detected in Ghemme city. CONCLUSIONS: Our analysis shows an increased risk of diseases (cancer and other diseases), with a possible environmental etiological link.