Primary intracranial tumors in the province of Trento-Italy (1977-1984). Distribution by administrative units.

The incidence rate for primary intracranial neoplasms in the province of Trento (Italy) is 8.5/100,000/year, but the figures in the eleven administrative units ('comprensori') are different. The increased rates in C6 Val di Non and C10 Vallagarina are mainly due to the number of malignant tumors in the 45- to 64-year-old males. The biggest provincial production of fruit and wine, and considerable amounts of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers used for many years are located in the above-mentioned units. For these substances and their derivatives there is evidence of carcinogenicity in humans, also with respect to the brain. The reported data can be considered as an epidemiological starting point to support an etiological hypothesis.