Information for the public
Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) plus chemotherapy with or without bevacizumab is available on the NHS. It is a possible treatment for persistent, recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer in adults if:
- their tumours express PD L1 with a combined positive score of at least 1, and
- pembrolizumab is stopped at 2 years of uninterrupted treatment, or earlier if the cancer progresses.
If you are not eligible for pembrolizumab but are already having it, you should be able to continue until you and your doctor decide when best to stop.
Is this treatment right for me?
Your healthcare professionals should give you clear information, talk with you about your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. Your family can be involved too, if you wish. See our webpage on making decisions about your care.
Questions to think about
- How well does it work compared with other treatments?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- How will the treatment affect my day-to-day life?
- What happens if the treatment does not work?
- What happens if I do not want to have treatment? Are there other treatments available?
Information and support
The NHS webpage on cervical cancer may be a good place to find out more.
These organisations can give you advice and support:
- Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust, 0808 802 8000
- Cancer Research UK, 0808 800 4040
- Macmillan Cancer Support, 0808 808 0000
You can also get support from your local Healthwatch.
NICE is not responsible for the quality or accuracy of any information or advice provided by these organisations.
ISBN: 978-1-4731-5613-5
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