Prognosis

Most recurrence happens within 2-3 years.[238][239]​​ The tumour may spread locally; to the lymphatic system (pelvic or para-aortic 11%, supraclavicular 7%); haematogenously (lungs 21%, bone 16%, liver, adrenals, brain); or transcelomically to the ovary or bowel (more common in adenocarcinomas but rare, <2%).[238]

The 5-year relative survival (2015-2021 data) is approximately 68%, but varies based on disease stage at diagnosis:[4]

  • Localised (stage I): 91.4%

  • Regional (stage II-III): 62.3%

  • Distant (stage IV): 19.5%

Cervical cancer survivors remain at risk of developing a second human papillomavirus-associated primary cancer, although the risk appears to be low.[240]

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