How common is it for cancer to return after a five-year-long remission?

The odds of a cancer recurring again after initial treatment depends on many factors including the type of cancer, the initial stage of the disease and the treatment rendered. Many patients are cured with initial treatment and do not relapse. For those who relapse, they typically recur within five years of the initial diagnosis. But some peculiar cancers, especially those less aggressive in nature, may relapse later, beyond the usual five-year window.

We know that early-stage disease and prompt appropriate treatment will reduce cancer relapse in the long term, so it is crucial to go for screening, identify cancer at an early stage and initiate treatment to ensure the best outcomes.

When cancer recurs, does it mean that it is likely late-stage cancer?

Not necessarily. Cancer can recur in a few ways. For instance, a cancer can relapse at, or near, the site of the original tumour. We call this a local recurrence. In the setting of a local recurrence, we do not consider this as late-stage.

In the alternate scenario, where the relapse occurs at a distant site away from the initial location such as the lungs, liver or bones, it is considered a disease spread. In this setting, it is a late-stage disease.

What's the difference between recurrence and progression?

The difference is slight, but both signify cancer worsening.

Recurrence occurs when the initial tumour is completely eradicated after initial treatment, yet returns after a period of time.

Progression is where there is already a tumour in the body, and over time, cancer worsens.

Is having cancer considered a death sentence?

In the modern era, with early cancer detection and improved treatment, cancer is no longer a death sentence. With the appropriate treatment, patients can overcome cancer and lead normal lives following treatment.