Impact of Chemoradiotherapy on Quality of Life in Cervical Cancer Survivors: A Prospective Cohort Study

Cervical cancer is considered a global health challenge, particularly in low and middle-income countries. Romania reports one of the highest burdens in Europe due to limited access to screening and HPV vaccination. Chemoradiotherapy is standard for locally advanced disease, but the impact on quality of life (QoL) for this specific population has not been explored. This study aims to evaluate the effect of chemoradiotherapy on the QoL of cervical cancer survivors. This prospective observational study included 111 patients with stage I–IVA cervical cancer undergoing chemoradiotherapy. QoL was assessed using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G) questionnaire at baseline, during, and after treatment. Demographic and clinical data was collected. The statistical analyses included t-tests, ANOVA, and linear mixed-effects models to evaluate changes over time and the influence of sociodemographic and treatment-related factors. FACT-G scores significantly increased after treatment with improvements in physical and functional well-being. Better baseline QoL was associated with urban residence, early-stage disease, marital status, and higher education. Among treatment toxicities, only nausea had a statistically significant negative effect on QoL during treatment, while other toxicities showed no significant impact. In conclusion, chemoradiotherapy in locally advanced cervical cancers was associated with an overall improvement in QoL, despite temporary declines during treatment. Sociodemographic disparities and nausea significantly influenced patient-reported outcomes, highlighting the importance of supportive care strategies during and after treatment.