Pavia is facing a concerning rise in cancer mortality rates, according to an analysis of data from the Benessere Equo Solidale (BES) released on March 1, 2026. The standardized mortality rate for tumors in the province is 8.4 per 10,000 inhabitants, exceeding both the regional rate of 7.2 and the national average of 7.6.
The data reveals a significant disparity between genders. Among men in Pavia, the mortality rate reaches 32.7 per 10,000, considerably higher than the regional figure of 30.5 and the national rate of 29.4. For women, the rate is 19.9 per 10,000, also surpassing regional (19.2) and national (18.4) averages.
The findings have prompted calls for a comprehensive epidemiological study. Thirty-one associations have urged authorities to initiate such a study, citing the need for a deeper understanding of the factors contributing to the elevated rates. Lorella Cecconami, the Director General of ATS Pavia, informed Alda La Rosa, president of Futuro Sostenibile in Lomellina, that the agency is currently updating epidemiological analyses using data from the Tumor Registry, with the latest figures dating back to 2022. These updates are being conducted according to established procedures to ensure data quality and reliability.
The Mortality Registry is also preparing a report that will include a specific analysis of premature mortality, according to the released data. La Rosa emphasized the importance of the available information, and that currently being updated, as a foundation for potential epidemiological investigations, potentially involving other entities and institutions focused on environmental and public health.
Isde Medici per l’ambiente of Pavia, in coordination with the Order of Physicians, has pledged to support the associations’ request, assessing available resources with relevant authorities. The associations are awaiting a response from the President of the Province, Giovanni Palli, after requesting a provincial council meeting on the matter a month prior, a request that remains unaddressed.
The province of Pavia also faces challenges in its cultural assets, with a museum heritage 87.7% lower than the national average and 88.4% lower than the regional average, according to the latest BES report. However, it demonstrates strength in the number of libraries, with 42.98 libraries per 100,000 inhabitants, nearly double the national and regional averages.