This episode summarizes a cross-sectional study from Central China on HPV genotype distribution and infection risk factors. Ye Chen and colleagues found that HPV52, 16, and 58 were most common, with infection peaks in young and older women. High-risk factors included diabetes, anxiety, low work intensity, and multiple sexual partners. Condom use and HPV vaccination were protective. The study advocates for integrative prevention strategies including psychosocial and metabolic health management.
In this episode of the JGO Podcast, we explore a recent study from Peking Union Medical College Hospital examining the role of adjuvant surgery in patients with high-risk chemorefractory or relapsed gestational choriocarcinoma who achieve complete remission following anti-PD-1 therapy. The retrospective analysis of 43 patients reveals no significant difference in survival outcomes between those who underwent surgery and those who did not, raising important questions about the necessity of surgical intervention in this setting. We discuss the implications of these findings in light of current treatment guidelines and emerging data on immunotherapy in gestational trophoblastic neoplasia.
This episode features an in-depth discussion of the Asian cohort analysis from the AtTEnd/ENGOT-EN7 phase III trial, which evaluated atezolizumab in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel for advanced or recurrent endometrial carcinoma. While atezolizumab improved progression-free survival in mismatch repair-deficient tumors across both Asian and non-Asian populations, it showed no benefit—and potential harm—in mismatch repair-proficient Asian patients. The analysis also revealed a higher incidence of severe adverse events among Asians receiving atezolizumab. These findings highlight the importance of considering ethnic differences in treatment response and toxicity in future clinical trials.
In this episode, we review findings from the Japan subset of the DUO-E phase III trial, led by Shin Nishio and colleagues, which evaluated durvalumab with or without olaparib following chemotherapy in patients with newly diagnosed advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer. The study demonstrated a progression-free survival benefit in Japanese patients consistent with the global population, with a median of 15.1 months in the durvalumab plus olaparib arm compared to 9.5 months in the control arm. Safety outcomes were manageable and aligned with known profiles of the treatments. These results support durvalumab-based regimens as promising first-line options for Japanese patients.
In this episode, we discuss the final analysis of the KEYNOTE-826 subgroup study led by Dr. Yong-Man Kim, evaluating pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy with or without bevacizumab in East Asian patients with persistent, recurrent, or metastatic cervical cancer. The study demonstrated substantial improvements in progression-free and overall survival compared to placebo, with median progression-free survival reaching 18.0 months versus 10.4 months in the overall population, and 29.3 versus 10.9 months in patients with PD-L1 expression. Safety was consistent with the known profile of pembrolizumab. These findings support its use as a standard of care in this population.
In this episode of the Journal of Gynecologic Oncology podcast, we review a recent meta-analysis by Tianyu Zhang and colleagues titled "Role of Adjuvant Chemotherapy in Stage IC Ovarian Granulosa Cell Tumors." The study analyzed data from 12 retrospective studies involving 695 patients to evaluate whether postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy offers any benefit over observation alone. The findings revealed no significant differences in recurrence, mortality, or five-year survival outcomes between the two groups, including across subtypes and chemotherapy regimens. These results suggest limited therapeutic value of adjuvant chemotherapy in stage IC granulosa cell tumors and underscore the need for individualized treatment approaches.Role of adjuvant chemotherapy in stage IC ovarian granulosa cell tumors: a systematic review and meta-analysis
In this episode of the Journal of Gynecologic Oncology podcast, we discuss a study by Baldwin and colleagues titled Evaluation of the Role of Liver Metastasectomy in the Treatment of Stage IV Endometrial Cancer. Using data from the National Cancer Database, the researchers analyzed outcomes in 999 patients with metastatic endometrial cancer confined to the liver. The study found that patients who underwent both chemotherapy and surgical removal of liver metastases had improved survival compared to those who received chemotherapy alone, with a median survival of 20.1 months versus 14.6 months. While the findings suggest a potential benefit of metastasectomy, adjusted analysis did not reach statistical significance, highlighting the need for further prospective studies. Tune in to learn more about the evolving role of surgery in metastatic endometrial cancer treatment.Evaluation of the role of liver metastasectomy in the treatment of stage IV endometrial cancer
This episode explores a recent study on the increased risk of cardiovascular disease among adolescent and young adult survivors of cervical cancer. Using data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service, researchers found that these survivors face a 47% higher risk of cardiovascular disease compared to non-cancer controls, with those receiving chemoradiotherapy at particularly high risk for heart failure, ischemic heart disease, and venous thromboembolism. The findings highlight the need for long-term cardiovascular monitoring and preventive care in this population. Tune in to learn more about the implications for survivorship care.Increased cardiovascular disease risk among adolescent and young adult survivors of cervical cancer
This episode discusses a multi-institutional study evaluating the impact of bevacizumab in frontline chemotherapy for advanced ovarian clear cell carcinoma. Researchers analyzed data from 178 patients treated between 2008 and 2018 and found that adding bevacizumab significantly improved progression-free and overall survival. Patients who received bevacizumab had a median progression-free survival of 29.7 months compared to 10.5 months in those who did not. Median overall survival was 51.4 months versus 27.4 months. These findings suggest that bevacizumab may be an effective addition to first-line treatment for this rare and chemoresistant ovarian cancer. Tune in to learn more about the study and its clinical implications.Bevacizumab in frontline chemotherapy improved the survival outcome for advanced ovarian clear cell carcinoma: A multicenter retrospective analysis
In this episode of the Journal of Gynecologic Oncology podcast, we discuss a study by Kanno and colleagues examining the impact of cytoreductive surgery on outcomes in high tumor burden ovarian cancer following the introduction of poly ADP-ribose polymerase inhibitors. This retrospective analysis of 434 patients found that, while complete cytoreduction remains essential, the use of poly ADP-ribose polymerase inhibitors may improve progression-free survival for patients with extensive tumor burden. However, higher surgical complexity was associated with increased complication rates. These findings highlight the evolving role of maintenance therapy and the importance of optimizing surgical approaches to enhance patient outcomes. Tune in to learn more about the implications for clinical practice in the poly ADP-ribose polymerase inhibitor era.The Impact of Cytoreductive Surgery on outcomes in High Tumor Burden Ovarian Cancer after induction of PARP inhibitors
This episode of the Journal of Gynecologic Oncology podcast explores a study by Berthet and colleagues on the role of platinum-free interval in predicting the benefit of second-line chemotherapy in recurrent uterine and ovarian carcinosarcoma. Analyzing a retrospective cohort of 40 patients, the study found that patients with a progression-free survival of more than nine months had a significantly longer overall survival after relapse when treated with platinum- or anthracycline-based chemotherapy. In contrast, those with earlier recurrence derived little benefit from additional chemotherapy, with outcomes comparable to patients receiving only best supportive care. These findings suggest that platinum-free interval could serve as a useful marker to guide treatment decisions. Tune in for a discussion on the clinical implications, potential therapeutic targets, and the future of individualized treatment strategies in gynecologic carcinosarcoma.Platinum free interval and clinical benefit of the second-line chemotherapy in recurrent uterine and ovarian carcinosarcoma: a retrospective cohort analysis.
In this episode of the Journal of Gynecologic Oncology podcast, we discuss a systematic review and meta-analysis by Zhang and colleagues comparing carboplatin-based and cisplatin-based chemotherapy in the treatment of malignant gonadal germ cell tumors. The study, which analyzed data from eight studies involving 1,409 patients, found that while carboplatin was associated with a higher treatment failure rate, overall survival was comparable to cisplatin. Subgroup analyses revealed that carboplatin may be a viable alternative in ovarian germ cell tumors but was less effective in testicular germ cell tumors. The efficacy of carboplatin was dose-dependent, with higher doses achieving better outcomes. Additionally, carboplatin was associated with lower nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity but higher rates of myelosuppression compared to cisplatin. These findings highlight the potential role of carboplatin as a substitute for cisplatin in select patients. Tune in for a detailed discussion of these important findings and their clinical implications.Comparison of carboplatin-based chemotherapy versus cisplatin-based chemotherapy in the treatment of malignant gonadal germ cell tumor: a systematic review and meta-analysis (https://doi.org/10.3802/jgo.2025.36.e49)
This episode of the Journal of Gynecologic Oncology podcast explores a post hoc analysis of the Japanese Gynecologic Oncology Group 2043 study, led by Yosuke Konno in Japan. The study evaluated the prognostic significance of para-aortic lymphadenectomy and para-aortic lymph node metastasis in high-risk endometrial cancer. Findings showed that para-aortic lymphadenectomy did not independently improve survival, but multiple para-aortic metastases were associated with significantly worse outcomes, likely indicating systemic disease. In contrast, patients with a single positive para-aortic lymph node had similar survival rates to those without metastases. These results highlight the need for individualized treatment strategies, including the potential role of immunotherapy. Tune in for a detailed discussion of the findings and their clinical implications. Prognostic significance of para-aortic node metastasis in endometrial cancer: Japanese Gynecologic Oncology Group Study JGOG2043 Post hoc analysis (https://doi.org/10.3802/jgo.2025.36.e57)
In this episode of the Journal of Gynecologic Oncology Podcast, we discuss a recent study by Kristin Bixel and colleagues on the use of adjuvant hormone therapy in patients with early-stage low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma. Using data from the National Cancer Database, the study analyzed over two thousand patients and found that while the use of hormonal therapy has increased over time, it does not improve overall survival. We explore key findings, clinical implications, and the need for further research on recurrence prevention and quality of life. Tune in for an in-depth discussion, and Happy Lunar New Year to our listeners! Adjuvant hormone therapy and overall survival among low-grade and apparent early-stage endometrial stromal sarcoma patients (https://doi.org/10.3802/jgo.2025.36.e50)
In this episode, we delve into a study titled “Functions, Interactions, and Prognostic Role of POLE: A Bioinformatics Analysis” by Carvajal-Veloza and colleagues, which explores the impact of POLE mutations in endometrial cancer. Using advanced bioinformatics tools, the researchers analyzed 30 mutations in the exonuclease domain of the POLE gene, highlighting their pathogenic effects on protein structure, DNA replication, and repair mechanisms. The study also investigated clinical data from over 2,900 endometrial cancer cases, finding that POLE mutations are more frequent in microsatellite-unstable tumors and are associated with higher infiltration of immune cells such as CD8+ T cells and macrophages, indicating enhanced antitumoral immune activity. Despite contributing to genomic instability and potential platinum resistance, these mutations are linked to favorable prognoses due to their immune-activating effects. This discussion underscores the critical role of molecular profiling in improving treatment strategies for endometrial cancer. Functions, Interactions and Prognostic role of POLE: a bioinformatics analysis (https://doi.org/10.3802/jgo.2025.36.e45)
In this episode of the JGO podcast, we delve into a cost-effectiveness analysis from the SHAPE trial, comparing simple hysterectomy to radical hysterectomy for patients with low-risk early-stage cervical cancer. The study, led by Dr. Janice S. Kwon and published in November 2024, found that simple hysterectomy was both more effective and less costly, with an average cost savings of 1,511 Canadian dollars per patient and improved quality-adjusted life expectancy. Postoperative complications, including urinary incontinence and retention, were significantly lower with simple hysterectomy, and recurrence-free survival rates were comparable between the two procedures. These findings strongly support simple hysterectomy as the new standard of care, offering better patient outcomes and reduced healthcare costs. Tune in to learn more about how this study could transform global treatment practices. Cost-effectiveness analysis of simple hysterectomy compared to radical hysterectomy for early cervical cancer (https://doi.org/10.3802/jgo.2024.35.e117)
In this episode, we discuss a phase II study by Chen Li and colleagues that evaluates the efficacy and safety of toripalimab, a PD-1 inhibitor, combined with bevacizumab and platinum-based chemotherapy as a first-line treatment for refractory recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer. With an impressive objective response rate of 83.3% and a median progression-free survival of 22.6 months, the findings highlight a promising alternative for patients with limited options. The discussion also explores the regimen’s manageable safety profile and its potential to optimize dosing strategies. Tune in for insights into this innovative approach that could reshape the treatment landscape for advanced cervical cancer. Toripalimab combined with bevacizumab plus chemotherapy as first-line treatment for refractory recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer: a single-arm, open-label, phase II study (JS001-ISS-CO214) (https://doi.org/10.3802/jgo.2025.36.e44)
In this episode of the Journal of Gynecologic Oncology podcast, we discuss a study by Natsuki Osawa and colleagues titled "Oncological safety of minimally invasive surgery in borderline ovarian tumor and ovarian cancer: a retrospective comparative study." The research evaluates the outcomes of 45 patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery for presumed benign ovarian tumors, later diagnosed as borderline ovarian tumors or ovarian cancer. The findings suggest that laparoscopic surgery is a safe option for borderline ovarian tumors, with a low recurrence rate and no impact on survival. However, for ovarian cancer, recurrence rates were higher, and rapid disease progression was observed in some cases, raising concerns about its suitability. The study also highlights important limitations, including its retrospective design and small sample size for ovarian cancer cases, emphasizing the need for further research. Tune in for an in-depth discussion on the implications of these findings for clinical practice. Oncological safety of minimally invasive surgery in borderline ovarian tumor and ovarian cancer: a retrospective comparative study (https://doi.org/10.3802/jgo.2025.36.e46)
In this episode, we review the multi-center study led by Zhong and colleagues, which investigates the efficacy of combining bevacizumab with chemotherapy in relapsed ovarian cancer after prior PARP inhibitor maintenance therapy. The study found that patients receiving the combination achieved a median progression-free survival of 11 months compared to 9 months with chemotherapy alone, with notable benefits in platinum-resistant disease. While bevacizumab increased adverse events like neutropenia and hypertension, outcomes were generally favorable. Tune in to learn how this research could shape future treatment strategies for recurrent ovarian cancer. Bevacizumab combined with chemotherapy could be superior to chemotherapy alone in relapsed ovarian cancer after PARPi: evidence from a multi-center propensity score-matched analysis (https://doi.org/10.3802/jgo.2025.36.e36)
In this episode, we delve into the NIVEC study, a phase 2 trial investigating the use of nivolumab, a programmed cell death protein 1 inhibitor, as a neoadjuvant therapy for patients with mismatch repair deficient, surgically resectable endometrial cancer. The study explores whether this immunotherapy can improve complete response rates when combined with standard surgical and adjuvant treatments. We discuss the trial’s design, rationale, and the potential impact of immune checkpoint inhibitors in reshaping treatment strategies for this challenging cancer subtype. Tune in to learn how this research aims to address critical gaps in the management of endometrial cancer and improve patient outcomes. A phase II study of induction PD-1 blockade (nivolumab) in patients with surgically completely resectable mismatch repair deficient endometrial cancer (NIVEC) (https://doi.org/10.3802/jgo.2025.36.e35)