Optimizing the Management of Advanced Cervical Cancer With Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy

STATEMENT OF NEED

There are an estimated 13,240 new cases of cervical cancer in the United States each year, and 4,170 people die of the disease. Due to screening and heightened awareness, deaths have declined during the past few decades. However, the malignancy continues to be a global health concern and is considered an epidemic in parts of the world. A significant proportion of patients develop advanced disease, which is rarely curable with available therapies, and treatment is often limited to palliative care. The 5-year overall survival rate is 57% for women with regional disease and 17% for those with distant disease; amongst black women, the prognosis is worse.

TARGET AUDIENCE

Medical oncologists, gynecologic oncologists, oncology advanced practitioners, oncology nurses, and other health care professionals involved in the treatment of patients with cervical cancer.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this activity, participants should be able to:

1. Describe the pathophysiology of cervical cancer and the scientific foundation for checkpoint inhibitor therapy
2. Evaluate emerging efficacy and safety data on checkpoint inhibitor therapy in advanced cervical cancer
3. Apply strategies to manage adverse events associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors