Introduction
The Surveillance and Evaluation Unit of the Center for Cancer Prevention and Control has been created as a result of the tobacco settlement under the Cancer Prevention, Education, Screening and Treatment Program of the Cigarette Restitution Fund (CRF) Program. The purpose of the Surveillance and Evaluation Unit is to:
- Collect analyze, and monitor data relating to targeted cancers, non-targeted cancers as determined by the Department, and cancer prevention, education, screening, and treatment programs in the State;
- Measure and evaluate CRF/CPEST screening and treatment programs in the State;
- Compile baseline and bi-annual cancer reports.
Surveillance Activities
The report contains information on cancer incidence, mortality, stage of disease at diagnosis, public health evidence for prevention and screening, recommended areas for public health intervention, and Maryland screening behaviors compared to Healthy People 2020 and the Maryland Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan targets for cancer prevention and screening.
Analysis of Cancer Related Behavioral Data:
Statewide Maryland Cancer Surveys (MCS) were conducted in 2002, 2004, 2006, and 2008 and related reports were developed during that time. The MCS was commissioned by the SEU and performed by the Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, School of Medicine. The purpose of the survey was to determine cancer screening rates and measure cancer risk behaviors among persons age 40 years and older, living in Maryland, for selected cancers. Since the last MCS was conducted, the Maryland Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey has been conducted on a yearly basis. The survey focus includes: risk behaviors, cancer screening, and other related behaviors among adults age 18 years and older and other subgroups such as the Hispanic/Latino population in Montgomery County and adults age 18 and older in Baltimore City.
Analysis of Databases for Surveillance and Evaluation Purposes:
Data is obtained from various sources to identify trends in cancer screening and costs associated with hospitalizations. Data sources include the Maryland Cancer Registry, Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Study, Vital Statistics, Maryland Health Care Commission, as well as hospital discharge data, endoscopy units, and selected cancer screening among Health Maintenance Organizations in Maryland.
Maintenance of the Cancer Surveillance Advisory Committee:
The Surveillance Advisory Committee was established to assist the SEU with epidemiological output issues and provide guidance on surveillance and evaluation issues. The Committee meets on an ad-hoc basis. Visit Cancer Surveillance Information Resources for more information regarding Cancer-related Surveillance activities.
Evaluation Activities
Development of a Cancer Client Database (CDB)
The CDB was created in 2004, and is intended to capture information about screening, diagnosis, and treatment of targeted cancers, and patient navigation, among eligible persons as determined by each local CRF-CPEST program. The CDB is a confidential database is available for local programs via the MDH Intranet.
Development of a Cancer Education Database (EDB)
The EDB was created to capture non-confidential information relating to cancer outreach, education, and publications as performed and developed by local CRF-CPEST programs. EDB data is used as a comprehensive tracking tool for program outreach and education efforts. The EDB is Internet-based so that local program staff can enter data, analyze data, and run reports.
Perform Quality Assurance Activities
The SEU performs quality assurance reviews of CDB and EDB data. These reviews involve a comprehensive review of data for accuracy, consistency, case management, and adherence to Minimal Elements for cancer screening, diagnosis, treatment, follow-up and education. Quality Assurance reviews are conducted prior to and during site visits to local CRF-CPEST programs.
Provision of Technical Support to Local CRF-CPEST Programs
The SEU responds to technical inquiries relating to the CDB and EDB and handle requests for surveillance and evaluation information and data.
Contact the Surveillance and Evaluation Unit
For additional information about Cancer for Cancer Surveillance and Control, Surveillance and Evaluation Unit, call 410-767-0791.
