Which of the following is a characteristic of registry data?

Registry data is characterized by its ability to include comprehensive cancer data from multiple sources. This means that it aggregates information not just from hospitals, but also from outpatient treatment facilities, laboratories, and other healthcare providers. This comprehensive nature allows researchers and public health officials to track cancer incidence, treatment outcomes, and care patterns across various populations and geographical areas.

In contrast, the other options suggest limitations that do not accurately reflect the nature of registry data. Self-reported data can be part of a registry, but it is not always the case, as data can also be extracted from clinical records and other authoritative sources. Furthermore, registry data is not restricted to information gathered solely during hospital stays; it encompasses data collected throughout a patient's entire cancer care journey, including outpatient visits and follow-up care. Lastly, registry data is not limited to specific cancer types; it covers a range of cancers and is often designed to capture data on all types of cancer within the population being studied, which enhances its utility in understanding and combating the disease.