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Updated: Oct. 1, 2026

Data Release

In order to balance the principles of access and confidentiality, the South Carolina Central Cancer Registry (SCCCR) has classified the release of data collected under Section 44-35-30, SC Code of Laws, 1996. This classification scheme aims to promote the use of accurate cancer data, provide equal treatment of data requesters and data providers, expedite the release and process, and encourage the release of the broad spectrum of data elements without compromising confidentiality. The data release classifications include two categories: unrestricted data and restricted (confidential) data. Procedures are set in place for the release of both classifications of data. The SCCCR Data Release Protocol explains these procedures. 

Requests for Unrestricted Data (Aggregate Statistics)

Researchers requesting unrestricted or non-confidential data should first visit SCAN. The SCAN data query system allows users to generate tables and maps of South Carolina cancer incidence and mortality data. If the desired non-confidential data is not available on SCAN, researchers should contact the SCCCR at cancer.registry@dph.sc.gov.

Please include the following information in your request:

  • Type of data requested (i.e. incidence, mortality)
  • Years requested (e.g., 1996-2019 incidence, 1996-2009 mortality)
  • Any other desired variables (i.e., age, race, stage at diagnosis - incidence only)
  • Reason for request
  • When the information is needed
  • Contact information: Name, title, company, address, phone, fax, email address

Requests for Restricted Data

Restricted (confidential) data refers to data items that pertain to whom, where, and when, or to aggregate data resulting in cell sizes less than 10 or rates based on fewer than 16 cases. For example, variables associated with patient, physician, & hospital or treatment center names, facility numbers or IDs, and locations, etc.; and dates more specific than year. Address or location information more specific than county are considered confidential. Researchers requesting the use of restricted or confidential data items must complete the SCCCR Research Data Request Application (please contact cancer.registry@dph.sc.gov for a copy of the application) and submit the application and all supporting documents to the SCCCR. For studies involving patient contact, please contact the registry to set up a meeting to discuss this process. For more information, see the SC Central Cancer Registry Case Ascertainment/Recruitment Protocol. 

The application is then reviewed by the Surveillance Subcommittee of the Cancer Control Advisory Committee (CCACSS). The CCACSS forwards the documentation and its recommendation to the Department of Public Health Institutional Review Board (DPH IRB). Notification of approval will be provided after CCACSS review (at the time of DPH IRB review).

In order for the data request process to proceed in the most expeditious manner, the SCCCR also requests that all researchers read the following document: Working With the South Carolina Central Cancer Registry (SCCCR): General Information and Best Practices for Students and Researchers (pdf).

For more information, please contact cancer.registry@dph.sc.gov or (803) 898-8000.

Reports and Publications

Cancer Statistics

Updated county-specific fact sheets about cancer incidence are currently in progress.

Community Cancer Assessments

Learn more about Community Cancer Assessments and cancer clusters.

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cancer
Statistics & Reports