PROSPECTS OF CANCER REGISTRATION SYSTEM AT ZIAUDDIN UNIVERSITY

Abstract

Despite cancer being one of the most common causes of mortality in Pakistan, little authentic data is available regarding the status, incidence and survival of cancer in our population the reason being the non existence of a national cancer registry and major neglect in this area. A cancer registry gathers, and analyses data on individuals with cancer, to formulate directives for control. Several scientific studies are coming up regarding the putative risk factors in relation to chemical, biological and environmental carcinogens associated in cancer pathogenesis. The recent risk factor analysis based on epidemiology, molecular biology and genetics of colon cancer has given a major to its management [1]. However, information regarding these risk factors and cancer burden from our country is not adequate to formulate and implement policies for primary and secondary prevention. This makes the formation of a cancer registry crucial. In addition, standardized data maintained in cancer registries can be used not only for clinical research but also for epidemiological research and to improve quality of care by healthcare planning and monitoring [2]. As cancer registries play a major role in assessing cancer burden and formulating cancer control programs, incorrect data can have detrimental effects on the resources of a developing country like Pakistan. It is therefore of utmost importance that the data collected by cancer registries is reliable and standardized [3].