Gulf Cancer Registry (GCCR)

The Gulf Centre for Cancer Registration (GCCR) plays a pivotal role in advancing cancer surveillance, research, and control across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Its primary goal is to establish a unified and high-quality cancer registry platform that collects, harmonizes, and analyzes cancer data from participating countries. Through standardized data collection methods, coding practices using ICD-10 and ICD-O, and continuous quality assurance, GCCR provides reliable epidemiological evidence to understand cancer incidence, mortality, and survival trends in the region.

The significance of GCCR lies in its ability to generate accurate and comparable cancer statistics that inform health policy, guide cancer control strategies, and support evidence-based decision-making. By capturing data on demographics, tumor characteristics, treatment patterns, and outcomes, GCCR enables researchers and policymakers to monitor cancer trends, evaluate the effectiveness of screening and prevention programs, and identify high-risk populations requiring targeted interventions.

One of the major expected impacts of GCCR is the creation of a robust regional cancer data resource that fosters collaboration between GCC countries and international organizations. This collaborative approach strengthens capacity-building in cancer registration, research, and health system planning. Furthermore, GCCR’s outputs will serve as a foundation for future cancer burden projections, resource allocation, and the design of early detection and prevention programs tailored to the region’s unique population and risk factors.

Ultimately, the Gulf Centre for Cancer Registration is expected to transform cancer research and control efforts in the GCC by providing essential data that drive improvements in patient outcomes, reduce disparities in cancer care, and contribute to the global fight against cancer.