Secondary Primary Cancers in Cervical Cancer Survivors: A review

Abstract

Cervical cancer (CC) continues to pose a significant global health burden, with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, smoking, and other factors contributing to its development. Advances in CC screening, vaccination, and treatment have improved survival; however, survivors remain at considerable long-term risk of developing second primary cancers (SPCs), which are associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy, along with persistent HPV infection and lifestyle factors like tobacco use, further contribute to SPC risk. This review summarizes current evidence on SPCs in CC survivors, focusing on their epidemiology, risk factors, impact on survival, risk assessment, and surveillance strategies.