The Global Initiative for Cancer Registry Development

Building Capacity

A key to the success of the GICR is to identify where help is needed and how best to deliver it.

The solution that the GICR has invested in is to work through partners to equip experts within the same region with resources, and in this way to foster a wide network of support.

Supporting countries to achieve robust and sustainable cancer registries to inform planning The GICR is working with partners to increase the quality, availability, and use of data to inform cancer control worldwide. To provide countries with a sustainable result, in-country skills are needed to collect data, conduct analyses, and communicate results about the trends in cancer.

The GICR builds capacity by working directly with leaders. In partnership, technical guidance and support contribute to advance priorities in each country through a joint working plan and links to resources.

Two-step approach: generate educational material based on approved standards, and form a network of trainers to support registry development

The demands for training in cancer registration are high. Many countries require assistance, and in most cases it takes time to properly train registry personnel in all of the required skills. To reach those that need help, a global support network is being developed through the GICRNet.

International standards form the basis of technical references that are used to produce materials for educational training. IARC, the IARC Regional Hubs, and partner organizations are focused on maintaining the scientific foundation of the GICR. Teams of designated IARC GICR Regional Trainers are provided with resources to work alongside colleagues in nearby countries to transfer their knowledge and provide ongoing guidance.

Knowledge translation

Cancer registration is a precise field of work. For maximum benefit, cancer registries must adhere to international procedures for coding, classification, and quality control, and - just as importantly - gain skills to increase their visibility. The GICR is designed to meet the growing demand for technical training by providing new opportunities to expand and accelerate support worldwide.

To achieve this, training is structured to widen the use of local experts and technology through three integrated programme components.