Q: What is a cancer registry?
A: A cancer registry:

• collects comprehensive information on all newly diagnosed cases of cancer occurring in a defined population
• often collects information on cancer deaths in the same population
• stores the information permanently and securely
• analyzes the information and produces regular reports

Q: Why is a cancer registry important?
A: Cancer reporting is the first step in Virginia's cancer surveillance program-a system designed to obtain medical and demographic information on Virginia residents diagnosed with cancer, in order to promote cancer prevention, early detection and successful treatment. A population-based registry, such as the VCR, is the best way to accurately assess the impact of a disease. With complete data on the occurrence of cancer in Virginia the registry can:

• Report how many Virginians have cancer
• Identify trends and patterns of cancer in Virginia
• Describe the different types of cancers that affect Virginians

Q: How long has the VCR been in existence?
A: The Virginia Cancer Registry (VCR) has collected demographic and clinical information about cancer patients diagnosed and/or treated in Virginia since 1970. The VCR became population-based in 1990, when the reporting of newly diagnosed cancer cases was made mandatory for hospitals, clinics, and pathology laboratories (Code of Virginia Section 32.1-70)