Descriptive Epidemiology of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma in the Province of Padova, 1970-1974

Abstract

The age-standardized incidence rates of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in the province of Padova during the period 1970-1974 were 3.19/105/year for males and 1.60/105/year for females. These rates are similar to those found in other industrialized countries and slightly higher than in the province of Torino. An increasing trend with age is described, beginning in the age group 35-44, while low rates were found in younger ages in both sexes. No relevant' pattern was shown in the geographical distribution of cases, and no observed/expected ratio was significant in any of the administrative districts considered. The influence of environmental factors and the limitations due to uncertain diagnostic criteria and the small size of the population considered are discussed.