Attention: SEER has changed the policy for accessing the Research Plus Data starting with the April 2023 data release. Details of the new policy and other significant changes included in the annual data release are detailed in the SEER Data Change History.

SEER collects cancer incidence data from population-based cancer registries covering approximately 47.9 percent of the U.S. population. The SEER registries collect data on patient demographics, primary tumor site, tumor morphology, stage at diagnosis, and first course of treatment, and they follow up with patients for vital status.

SEER Data Products

View Comparison of Data Products

There are two data products available: SEER Research and SEER Research Plus. This was motivated because of concerns about the increasing risk of re-identifiability of individuals. The Research Plus Data require user authentication through eRA Commons or an HHS account. View the FAQ about access requirements for more information.

Research Data

Access to 1975-2020 data with exclusions:

  • Excludes geography, month in addition to year of diagnosis, and other demographic fields

Who Can Access?

  • Any user with a valid email address

Data Access Steps

  • Complete registration form
    • Initial required agreements
  • Get SEER*Stat account
  • Log into SEER*Stat

Research Plus Data

Access to 1975-2020 data including:

  • Geography, month in addition to year of diagnosis, other demographic fields
  • National Childhood Cancer Registry (NCCR) data (available Summer 2023)

Who Can Access?

  • Users with eRA Commons or HHS accounts

Data Access Steps

  • Login with required account
  • Complete registration form
    • Initial required agreements
  • Provide signing official
  • Get SEER*Stat account
  • Log into SEER*Stat

Specialized Databases

  • These include additional fields that SEER collects and makes available through databases that are not part of the standard research data files. For more information, refer to the list of Specialized Databases.
  • To access these databases, users must already have access to the latest Research Plus Data and submit a proposal with description of research objectives and analysis plans that will be reviewed for each database requested. 
  • Some specialized databases are only available to researchers inside the U.S.

View How to Request Access

Start a Request

  • Request access to the Research Plus and NCCR Data
  • Register for access to the Research Data
Continue to Request Form