Cancer mortality in a local health district of Vercelli (Italy) 2000-2009

Cancer mortality data for 2000-2009 in the local health district of Vercelli (northern Italy) were analysed. Overall, standard mortality rates show excess mortality rates in men for colon and rectal cancers, central nervous system cancers, as well as esophageal, laryngeal, renal, lung, skin (non melanoma) and skeletal system cancers. For women, excess mortality rates were found for skin (non melanoma), leukemias, nervous system cancers, lymphomas and skeletal system cancers. Mortality data for the years 2006-2009 were compared to data for 2000-2005. Results show an increased mortality risk for mesothelioma in the period 2006-2009 with respect to the period 2000-2005. On the other hand decreased mortality risks were found for nervous system tumours and leukemia, even though current standard mortality rates remain in excess. In light of these findings, it is advisable to monitor the phenomenon in the coming years and to conduct studies to identify possible risk factors