Investigators interested in population-based cancer research are encouraged to submit applications for peer review to use Minnesota Cancer Surveillance System (MCSS) data when the research requires access to personal identifiers. Other requests for data are handled on an ad hoc basis by the MCSS epidemiologists. In addition, specific analyses could be designed and used, with additional data collection, for a Ph.D. dissertation. The MCSS can identify patients as potential participants in case-control studies approved through the MCSS Peer Review process. Cohort linkages can also be performed.

Approximately 85% of cancers are reported within 9 months of diagnosis. If a researcher needs more rapid access to patients, a contract for rapid ascertainment can be established with the MCSS. The costs for rapid ascertainment vary, depending on the geographic area to be covered, the expected number of cases, and the precise methods used to perform the rapid case finding. Current and recent research using MCSS include case-control studies of melanoma, adult myeloid leukemia, prostate cancer, brain tumors, and pancreatic cancer.

Contact Information

Sally Bushhouse, D.V.M., Ph.D.
sally.bushhouse@state.mn.us