Certified Tumor Registrar (CTR) Practice Exam

According to NAACCR standards, how many months after the diagnosis year should reportable cancer cases be reported?

1. 12 months

2. 18 months

3. 23 months

4. 36 months

The correct answer is: 23 months

Reporting cancer cases in accordance with NAACCR standards is crucial for maintaining accurate cancer registries. Specifically, the NAACCR guidelines stipulate that reportable cancer cases should be submitted within 23 months following the year of diagnosis. This timeframe allows for the collection and verification of data, ensuring that registries have comprehensive and reliable information about cancer trends and outcomes. The 23-month period also balances the need for timely reporting with the necessity of capturing complete and accurate case data, as it provides enough time for healthcare providers to submit all relevant information. This period accounts for various factors that can affect reporting, such as late diagnoses or delayed treatments. By adhering to this standard, cancer registries can better fulfill their role in public health surveillance and research, ultimately contributing to improved cancer prevention and control efforts.