Cancer of the Rectum: Epidemiology, Improvement in Survival and the Role of a National Cancer Registry

Abstract

The Norwegian Cancer Registry was established in 1951 and is based on obligatory reporting of all cancer cases and precancerous conditions. All hospitals in Norway report clinical data on every patient discharged with a diagnosis of neoplasia. The registry also receives copies of all working documents from pathologists (cytology, surgical specimens, autopsy). The pathology laboratory connections are a particularly important basis for the quality control and completeness of the registry. Each year, the registry receives information on approximately 20 000 new cancer patients plus follow-up information on those previously diagnosed. Close to 100% of all rectal cancers are reported. A sine qua non for the quality of the data is the unique national eleven-digit personal identification number which allows any individual to be traced from birth to death. Thus follow-up data with respect to survival is 100% [1].