Comprehensive assessment of population-based cancer registries: an experience in Colombia

BACKGROUND: In the global context, the establishment of population-based cancer registries, particularly in less developed regions, has become of strategic importance. The factors influencing the operation and sustainability of registries can be determinants for their success, despite the existence of uniform quality indicators in the cancer incidence information. Our objective was to determine the current state of the structure, organization and operation of populationbased cancer registries in Colombia, obtain information on their degree of development and identify specific problems that affect their operation and sustainability.

METHODS: We developed a descriptive study in 5 population-based cancer registries (Barranquilla, Bucaramanga, Cali, Manizales, and Pasto). The analysis included 7 broad categories: general characteristics, operational procedures, scientific production, completeness, validity, comparability and continuing education. To establish the validity of the information we used the available incidence databases.

RESULTS: All registries were based in a university (3 public, 2 private). The 5 registries covered 11.8 percent of the Colombian population. Four registries published their results on cancer incidence. Financing came from different sources and costs varied significantly. Cancer incidence rates ranged from 94.1 to 189.2 per 100,000. The coverage of information sources ranged from 60 to 90 percent. Validity indicators were within acceptable limits while comparability parameters showed variations between registries. All registries participated in regular workshops and congresses.

CONCLUSIONS: Operation of cancer registries in a model with universities and with several financial sources seems to provide sustainability; follow-up, training and assistance are critical to motivation and quality, costs vary significantly and determinants of costs of registry activities need to be further assessed.