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

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.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).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.Our analysis shows an increased risk of diseases (cancer and other diseases), with a possible environmental etiological link.