[Incidents of brain tumors observed in the Grenoble area (canton of Meylan) 1979-1990]. / Etude des cas incidents de tumeurs intra-crâniennes observés entre 1979 et 1990 dans la région de Grenoble (canton de Meylan).

ABSTRACT

A high excess of risk (standardized incidence ratio S.I.R. 320 [190-490]) of intracranial tumors among men living within the county of Meylan, in the suburb area of Grenoble, as compared with the overall population was shown by the Isère Cancer Registry, for the period 1979-1984. There has been no change of this excess of risk between 1979 and 1990 (S.I.R. = 190). The pathological homogeneity of this cluster (neuroglial tumors) among men is noticeable. This county is known as a concentration of high-tech and intellectual professional activities. A descriptive study was conducted on the 24 cases diagnosed between 1979 and 1990, based on retrospective interviews of patient's family. Ethnical origins, blood groups, personal and familial medical history (with special interest in cranial injuries), socio economic status, chemicals, radiations and electro-magnetic exposures, acoustic and visual exposures (such as noises and T.V.), drinking water, tobacco and food consumptions, were investigated. Educational level, occupation, and European ethnic origin are all pointing to the same direction a higher risk in high level social classes and high level professions. An analytical study is going on, that would give a deeper insight in these phenomenons.