Morbidity, Mortality and Reproductive Health in an Area Contaminated by Persistent Organic Pollutants

Abstract

P-285 Introduction: Persistent organic contaminants originating from illegal waste dumping sites have accumulated in soil and water over several years in the area of the Sacco river (Central Italy). In 2005, high levels of Beta-hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH) were detected in milk samples from several farms in the area. The aim of the study was to evaluate the health of area's residents by analysing the mortality registry, hospital discharge records and birth records. Methods: The study area was defined as the three municipalities that were crossed by the Sacco river and were the closest to the industrial area (31,000 inhabitants). Gender cause-specific Standardized Mortality (1997–2000) and Morbidity (2001–2004) Ratios were computed, with 95% Confidence Intervals, using the population of the Lazio region as reference. Reproductive health outcomes for the same period were analysed in the study area and compared with the Lazio region (Odds Ratio): sex ratio (Male/Female × 100), low birth weight, % of multiple births, % of small for gestational age (<2500 g and >37 weeks). Results: Higher mortality and hospital admissions for malignant neoplasms of the lung, pleura and bladder were observed in the area, especially among men. Moreover, higher frequency of hospital admissions for diseases of the peripheral nervous system, asthma (both among adults and among children) and disorders of the female reproductive system were observed. No difference in the reproductive health outcomes were observed with respect to the regional population. Discussion and Conclusions: The excesses in lung and pleural cancers observed might be explained by occupational exposure to asbestos. However, the excesses found for other diseases suggest a possible role of environmental pollutants and a need further investigations.