In mid-1984, mortality statistics for the State of New Hampshire as provided by the National Cancer Institute showed that our population had experienced about 100 additional cancer deaths above the national average each year over the period 1950-1979. This information led to the formation of a Coalition Against Cancer, established with the assistance of the New Hampshire Division of Public Health Services, and the American Cancer Society, N.H. Division, Inc. Through the effort of the Coalition and the passage of the Chronic Disease Prevention and Control Act, cancer was established as a reportable disease in the State of New Hampshire. A contract between the Division of Public Health Services and Dartmouth College to establish and operate a statewide cancer registry was approved by the Governor and Council.

Who reports to the NHSCR?

Hospital cancer registries, physicians, pathology laboratories, radiation/oncology clinics, and nursing homes report newly diagnosed reportable cases.

Please contact NHSCR if your facility needs to report. We will provide you with reporting instructions.

What is the purpose of a two-phase reporting system?

The New Hampshire State Cancer Registry has an innovative, two-phase, reporting system. Very basic data, including site and histology (cell type), are reported within 45 days of diagnosis. Data reported 180 days from the date of diagnosis includes more specific information, such as treatment and staging information.

The purpose of this system is to establish a workable procedure for providing information relevant to cancer assessment and prevention efforts.

What about confidentiality?

Strict policies and procedures have been developed to maintain confidentiality in disclosure of data.

In summary:

The New Hampshire State Cancer Registry is a state-supported service that maintains a data base documenting cancer incidences in NH; the NHSCR makes these data available on a timely basis as a resource for studies of the causes of cancer. NHSCR also makes information available to guide planning and evaluation programs leading to cancer prevention and control.

BOTTOM LINE:

Cancer is a reportable disease (like Anthrax or Cholera). Specific information concerning the individual, such as his or her diagnosis and treatment, is to be reported within a specified time period.

Data collected from the above activities will be used to provide information to the Department of Health and Human Services on cancer control and prevention activities within the State.