Global Consultation on Cancer Staging: promoting consistent understanding and use

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Cancer Research
• Clinical Pathology

Background:

• Disease burden significantly impacts cancer patient survival.
• Cancer staging, particularly the tumour-node-metastasis (TNM) classification, is a key prognostic determinant.
• Accurate staging is crucial for treatment guidelines, clinical research, and cancer surveillance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a consensus on optimal terminology and use for cancer staging.
• To address inconsistencies and confusion arising from attempts to integrate additional prognostic factors into staging.
• To ensure anatomical disease extent is classified as a distinct aspect of cancer classification.

Main Methods:

• A multi-step consultation process was employed.
• Focused literature review.
• Stakeholder survey and consultation meeting involving international cancer classification organizations.

Main Results:

• A consensus was reached on the optimal use and terminology for cancer staging.
• The consensus aims to standardize the classification of anatomical disease extent.
• This initiative seeks to reduce uncertainty and enhance the utility of the TNM classification.

Conclusions:

• Standardized cancer staging terminology is essential for consistent prognosis and research.
• The developed consensus provides guidance for international cancer classification organizations.
• Clear distinction of anatomical disease extent in staging improves classification accuracy and utility.