What is a cancer registry?
A cancer registry is an information system designed for the collection, management and analysis of data on persons with the diagnosis of a malignant or neoplastic disease (cancer). Cancer registries can be classified into three general types:

• Healthcare institution registries maintain data on all patients diagnosed and/or treated for cancer at its facility. Healthcare facilities report cancer cases to the central and state cancer registry as required by law.
• Central registries are population-based registries that maintain data on all cancer patients within certain geographical areas.
• Special purpose registries maintain data on a particular type of cancer, such as brain tumors.

Why maintain a cancer registry?

• Local, state and national cancer agencies use registry data in defined areas to make important public health decisions that maximize the effectiveness of limited public health funds, such as the placement of screening programs.
• Cancer registries are valuable research tools for those interested in the etiology, diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
• Fundamental research on the epidemiology of cancer is initiated using the accumulated data.
• Lifetime follow-up is an important aspect of the cancer registry. Current patient follow-up serves as a reminder to physicians and patients to schedule regular clinical examinations and provides accurate survival information.

What information is maintained in the cancer registry?

• Demographic Information: Age, gender, race/ethnicity, birthplace and residence.
• Medical History: Physical findings, screening information, occupation and any history of a previous cancer.
• Diagnostic Findings: Types, dates and results of procedures used to diagnose cancer.
• Cancer information: Primary site, cell type and extent of disease.
• Cancer Therapy: Surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone or immunotherapy.
• Follow-up: Annual information concerning treatment, recurrence, and patient status is updated to maintain accurate surveillance information.

How are these data used?

• Evaluate patient outcome, quality of life, and satisfaction issues and implement procedures for improvement
• Provide follow-up information for cancer surveillance
• Calculate survival rates by various data items
• Provide information for cancer program activities
• Analyze referral patterns
• Allocate resources at the health care facility, the community, region or state level
• Develop educational programs for health care providers, patients and the general public
• Report cancer incidence as required under state law
• Evaluate efficacy of treatment modalities

Is the information kept confidential?
Confidentiality of patient identifying information and related medical data is strictly maintained. Aggregate data are analyzed and published without patient identifiers.