ESTABLISHING A COMPUTERIZED TUMOR REGISTRY - THE EASTERN PROVINCE EXPERIENCE

Background: Programs for effective cancer care include facilities for cancer research, prevention and treatment as well as a regional or nat ional cancer registry. The Computerized Tumor Registry Project at King Faisal University is the first attempt to establish a population-base d Tumor Registry at a regional level in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (K SA). Objectives: This paper discusses the steps taken to set up the re gistry and analyzes the achievements and obstacles. Methods: Developin g the registry required project manpower, computer software and other non-human resources including procedure and system manuals, data entry and follow-up formats, as well as reportable lists, confidentiality c ode, legislation, data collection procedures, a way to estimate the po pulation of the Eastern Province and quality control measures. Results : The project achievements and major obstacles were outlined. Recommen dations: Measures to ensure completeness of the registration, updating the census and improving quality control were recommended.