There were 601 cancer cases added to the database in 1999, with 559 cases being analytical (new) cases. The two most prevalent primary sites were breast cancer with 140 analytical cases and lung cancer with 86 analytical cases. This yearÕs annual report also includes survival rates for breast, lung, prostate, rectal and bladder cancer. Urologist Paul Zbell, MD, helped prepare the in-depth study on bladder cancer.

As an approved cancer program, Cancer Data Management statistics are always included in the National Data Base of American College of Surgeons. Patient Care Evaluation Studies and Continuous Quality Improvement Studies are accomplished under the supervision of the Cancer Committee.

Follow-up letters are mailed to physicians annually, and new information obtained is added to the patientÕs database. The follow-up rate is 90 percent.

The importance of accurate data is stressed. The goal of Cancer Data Management is to provide information on specific sites, pathology and treatment modalities and outcomes. Reporting results of treatment for use in the future is the reason for data management. The availability of the information will help our physicians with treatment decisions for their patients.

Glenda Wilson, RRA/CTR
Cancer Data Specialist