Trends in Pregnancy-Associated Cervical Cancer in Japan between 2012 and 2017: A Multicenter Survey

Simple Summary The available evidence does not sufficiently indicate the status of pregnancy-associated cervical cancer in Japan and the associated treatment options. This study aimed to assess the occurrence of pregnancy-associated cervical cancer, available treatments, and the impact on the mother and the unborn child. The results show that pregnancy-associated cervical cancer is occurring more frequently in Japan, and most of the patients with early-stage disease have successful deliveries, although some have preterm births. Our findings also show that pregnant women with stage IB1 cervical cancer have the option of continuing pregnancy in addition to chemotherapy, as well as removal of the cervix and surrounding tissues. Thus, the treatment approach for pregnancy-associated cervical cancer must consider the stage of the cancer and the benefits that will accrue for both the mother and the unborn child. Large-scale data on maternal and neonatal outcomes of pregnancy-associated cervical cancer in Japan are scarce, and treatment strategies have not been established. This multicenter retrospective observational study investigated clinical features and trends in pregnancy-associated cervical cancer treatments at 523 hospitals in Japan. We included cervical cancer cases that were histologically diagnosed (between 1 January 2012, and 31 December 2017), and their clinical information was retrospectively collected. Of 40 patients diagnosed with pregnancy-associated cervical cancer at >= 22 gestational weeks, 34 (85.0%) were carefully followed until delivery without intervention. Of 163 diagnosed at <22 gestational weeks, 111 continued and 52 terminated their pregnancy. Ninety patients with stage IB1 disease had various treatment options, including termination of pregnancy. The 59 stage IB1 patients who continued their pregnancy were categorized by the primary treatment into strict follow-up, conization, trachelectomy, and neoadjuvant chemotherapy groups, with no significant differences in progression-free or overall survival. The birth weight percentile at delivery was smaller in the neoadjuvant chemotherapy group than in the strict follow-up group (p = 0.029). Full-term delivery rate was relatively higher in the trachelectomy group (35%) than in the other groups. Treatment decisions for pregnancy-associated cervical cancer are needed after estimating the stage, considering both maternal and fetal benefits.

Automated summary

This study found that the incidence of pregnancy-associated cervical cancer is increasing in Japan, with most early-stage patients successfully giving birth, although there are cases of preterm birth. Pregnant women with stage IB1 cervical cancer have the option to continue pregnancy with chemotherapy or undergo cervical removal. Treatment decisions should consider cancer stage and benefits for both mother and unborn child.