The Department of Research

This includes investigating cancer occurrence and changes in cancer trends, the goal is to find the causes of cancer to promote cancer prevention, supporting screening and early detection, as well as researching areas for improvements in cancer survival and care.

We also study cancer in the context of other diseases, prescribed medications, and socioeconomic factors. Our research thus helps reduce the burden of cancer. Our work is often based on comprehensive data from existing pre-diagnostic and diagnostic biobanks, large population-based health surveys including detailed information on lifestyle, behavior, diet, occupation, environmental exposures, and population-based health registries.

We have made pre-diagnostic samples more accessible through our work on a new biobank solution for the large Janus Serum Bank. In our project portfolio, we also have collaborative studies with industry that enable unique research on long-term effects on human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines. Additionally, cooperation with both industry and the Norwegian Cancer Society has been important for the clinical registries and resulted in information about systemic cancer treatment offered at hospitals being included in the Cancer Registry of Norway. In addition, the department of research contributes to other core tasks at the Cancer Registry of Norway, such as registration, screening, and communication activities.

The Department of Research consist of 3 sections.

Section of molecular epidemiologi and infections

The research in this section focuses on molecular markers and infections related to cancer development and early detection. The goal is to improve cancer prevention and cancer survival. Many of the projects are interdisciplinary and involve expertise from the fields of epidemiology, molecular biology, and clinical medicine. Important topics include HPV-related cancer, HPV vaccination, and screening for cervical cancer. The section also manages biobanks and laboratory facilities and collaborates closely with other departments nationally and internationally. They also contribute resources to various tasks at the Cancer Registry.

Section of epidemiologi and prevention

The section’s research focuses largely on the primary and secondary prevention of several cancer types. The research is based on population-based registry data, health surveys and international data sources. They study occupational exposures related to cancer risk and also investigate how medications can affect cancer development and treatment. Modifiable lifestyle factors such as UV radiation, physical activity, and diet are also researched to better understand cancer development and prevention. Additionally, the section has projects aimed at identifying and validating biological markers that can be used in early diagnosis and provide new insights into mechanisms of cancer development. The section also provides resources for other tasks at the Cancer Registry and represents them in national and international scientific councils and committees.

Section of administration and research support

The Section consists of employees with varied and broad expertise in research support. The section provides assistance in all phases of research projects and also offers help in research ethics, funding, data management, statistical analysis, and publication. The section develops and maintains routines and tools to support research.

• Research (kreftregisteret.no)
• Departments and reseachers (kreftregisteret.no)