PROQUR: A tool for quality control, epidemiological surveillance, patient follow-up and clinical research activities related to prostate cancer

Abstract

Prostate cancer is a leading cancer in Western Europe and epidemiological surveillance is essential to better understand the disease and its treatment. A database for quality control starting with the diagnostic procedure transrectal ultrasound guided core biopsy of the prostate was designed with the aim of monitoring side-events to the procedure, direct printing of reports and forms related to the diagnostic procedure, the National Cancer Registry and the National Prostate Cancer Quality Registry. The programme is flexible, and new folders related to specific research activities can be attached. The programme is easy to handle and aimed at facilitating the daily work of the urologist, epidemiological surveillance and disease progression. We suggest the programme should become a common tool and platform for a standardised approach in diagnostic, therapeutic, administrative reporting to the National Cancer Registry and National Prostate Cancer Quality Registry, and research on prostate diseases in the urologic community in Sweden and eventually abroad. © 2005 Taylor & Francis.