Looking to the Future: Changes Approved for 2027 NAACCR Data Standards

By Stephanie M. Hill, MPH, CTR, NAACCR | April 13, 2026

As we move into Spring, many cancer registries are preparing to begin 2026 abstracting, but registry standard setters are already looking ahead to 2027 – and beyond! The High-Level Strategic Group (HLSG) voted last month on changes to the NAACCR Data Standards and Data Dictionary (Standards) for use beginning with the 2027 diagnosis year (NAACCR v27). NAACCR…

NAACCR CPR Guidelines to be Incorporated into HL7 LRI Implementation Guide

By Ashley Knealing | April 6, 2026

The NAACCR Cancer Pathology Reporting (CPR) Guidelines – also known as Laboratory Electronic Pathology Reporting Guidelines Volume V – are being incorporated into HL7’s Laboratory Reporting Interface (LRI) Implementation Guide through the May 2026 HL7 ballot process. This effort is led by Sandy Jones (contractor) in collaboration with NAACCR’s CPR workgroup. HL7’s LRI is a…

Radiation Exposure Compensation Act and Cancer Registries

By Randi Rycroft, MSPH, ODS-C | March 30, 2026

The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) is a program operated by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Civil Division. This restitution program has existed for many years, and our colleagues in several states are probably already familiar with RECA. For years, the RECA program has compensated individuals affected by radiation exposure under three specific categories:…

National Childhood Cancer Registry Summer Feature

By Fernanda Michels | July 27, 2026

The NCCR Summer Feature shares the highlights from the National Childhood Cancer Registry (NCCR) session held at the 2026 NAACCR Annual Conference. This edition also features funding opportunities, new data source included in the NCCR Data Platform upcoming CCDI symposium, and the 2026 NCI Data Jamboree. Highlights of the 2026 NAACCR Annual Conference The 2026…

Exmploring New Approaches to Data Collection: Modular Records Task Force Final Report

By Ashley Knealing | July 20, 2026

The Modular Records Task Force was initiated in August 2025 to support the NAACCR Board’s Strategic Plan on the strategic initiative for Innovative Approaches to Data Collection (Minimal Datasets and Partial Records): Improving timeliness through innovative approaches to data collection. The purpose of the task force was to define a new “modular” approach to cancer…

NAACCR Education and Training Upcoming Events

By Angela Martin | July 13, 2026

NAACCR ODS Exam Prep and Review The Fall 2026 Session of the NAACCR ODS Exam Prep and Review webinar series is tentatively scheduled to begin on November 1, 2026. Registration for the series will start July 22, 2026. The series is $260 per participant. For more information go to https://education.naaccr.org/CTR. Contact Angela Martin, if you…

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OUR MISSION

Actionable content that unites cancer registries.

The Narrative strives to provide you with information you can use to enhance and strengthen your cancer registry. Look to the Narrative for the latest cancer surveillance news, trends, advances in technology, and latest educational opportunities.

OUR VISION

Make every cancer count.

Cancer affects thousands of people across North America every year. Each cancer case must contribute to our knowledge and understanding so that we may reduce the burden of these diseases. Narrative provides a platform for the cancer surveillance community to collaborate and share data that will improve health outcomes.

CANCER REGISTRY SPOTLIGHT: MICHIGAN

Successful Linkage Between Registry Database and LexisNexis

In our ongoing commitment to enhance the quality and accessibility of data, we are thrilled to announce the successful linkage between our registry database and LexisNexis. This integration represents a significant step forward in streamlining our data processes and expanding our analytical capabilities.