National cancer registry, 1980-1983
Abstract
Legislation making cancer a notifiable disease
was introduced in Costa Rica in 1976. At the same
time, a National Tumour Registry was established,
and collection of data commenced in March 1977.
The aims of the National Tumour Registry, specified
by legislation, were to collect data which would
permit assessment of:
( 1) the incidence and prevalence of cancer by
anatomical site, sex, age, occupation and
geographical area;
(2) the distribution and quality of medical
services provided to persons suffering from
cancer;
(3) all new cases of malignant cancer diagnosed
within the national boundaries, and
any other relevant problems.
The Cancer Registry of Costa Rica obtains data
on cancer cases from hospital records, death certificates,
biopsies and autopsies.