The causes of deaths in an industry-dense area: example of Dilovası (Kocaeli)*

Abstract

Aim: Chemical pollutants caused by the industry have changed both mortality rates and morbidity patterns causing new illnesses over the last few decades. This study aimed to determine the causes and characteristics of deaths related to cancer in 2004 in Dilovasi, Kocaeli, which was mainly used as a production, storage, and transfer area for a variety of industries, such as chemical, metal and metal products, energy, and machinery. Materials and methods: In this cross-sectional study, death records of 8 different registry/record screenings belonging to 4 public institutions in Dilovasi in 2004 were investigated. The study population included deaths in 2004 and those whose residencies were in Dilovasi. Results: Thirty-three percent of the deaths were caused by cancer, which was diagnosed by a health institution. The risk of death due to cancer was 4.4 (CI: 1.05-21.3) times higher for people who have lived in Dilovasi for more than 10 years than the ones who lived there for less than 10 years. This did not change according to age groups and smoking status. Conclusion: As the proportion of deaths caused by cancer is 3 times higher than both the national and world data records, the situation in Dilovasi is a public health problem that should be dealt with as soon as possible. © TÜBITAK.