New Chemo Plan Boosts Cervical Cancer Survival

Doctors have found a game-changer for locally advanced cervical cancer. A new study showed that adding a six-week chemotherapy course before standard treatment can significantly increase survival rates. The trial involved patients from different countries, divided into two groups. One group received the standard chemoradiotherapy, while the other got a short course of chemotherapy first. After five years, 80% of those who got the initial chemotherapy were still alive, compared to 72% in the standard treatment group. However, the initial chemotherapy group had more severe side effects. The study authors believe this is a major leap forward, using affordable and available drugs. Expert Dr. Mary McCormack praises the patients for helping gather evidence to improve treatment globally. Despite advancements, cervical cancer still claims lives, with warning signs like abnormal bleeding. Regular screenings and an HPV vaccine can help prevent it. The future might lie in personalized treatment options like immunotherapy.