부산대학교 도서관

Worldwide, research based on geographic information of official statistical data, including cancer registries, is utilized for cancer control and public health policies. The National Cancer Registry of Japan was launched in 2016, making it possible to use data on cancer incidence systematically. Given the nature of this comprehensive survey, the usefulness of the National Cancer Registry would be further enhanced when it is utilized at small-regional levels, such as in municipalities or even smaller geographical units. It is essential to maintain a balance between privacy protection and data usability. Currently, the national and prefectural councils determine the availability of the data from the National Cancer Registry at the small-regional level on an individual application basis. Under this framework, use of the data is often restricted or declined. This paper showcases three model countries where geographic information obtained from cancer registry data are widely utilized: the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. It further discusses measures to ensure that data are effectively used, without compromising data privacy.