Core Hub functions
The GICR has four intersecting and complementary areas as core Hub functions.
These are: training; directed support, through site visits and mentorship arrangements; analysis to produce scientific and policy reports that support cancer control; and the formation of regional networks, to assist with developing the exchange of information among peers.
Core activities delivered by the IARC Regional Hubs for Cancer Registration:
Hubs are tasked with providing administrative and technical support to deliver annual courses related to cancer registration. Hubs, together with IARC and other partners, will aid in the development of tailored course materials.
Additional ad hoc training according to specific registry requirements will also be considered through technology transfers (fellowships, twinning with registries with linguistic and technical similarity) or the delivery of specific courses.
The selection of course topics will be through consultations with countries in the Hub region. New approaches such as distance learning, together with improving access to educational reference materials, are under way via the GICRNet.
The Hubs act as the first point of call for the registry community within their region. Hubs will be tasked with responding to initial queries and liaising to assess and identify priorities for technical support for:
- population-based registration methods, coding, and classification;
- software installation and data management;
- quality control and assurance;
- data analysis and publications; and
- liaison with other agencies in support of the role of registries in cancer control and research.
Hubs will work with registries so that data can be used to inform cancer control planning. For more details, see The value of cancer data.
As part of an effort to sustain registries, relationships between peers are essential. The Hubs are tasked with assisting in the development of regional networks and facilitating communication between the registries.