One to three percent of survivors develop a second cancer different from the originally treated cancer. The level of risk is small, and greater numbers of survivors are living longer due to improvements in treatment. However, even thinking about the possibility of having a second cancer can be stressful.

How likely is it for cancer to come back?

Cancer recurrence is a foremost concern of patients and their caregivers .Related Articles.Cancer TypeRecurrence RateMelanoma2115% to 41%, depending on stage 87%, metastatic disease18 more rows•Nov 30, 2018

How common is it to get cancer twice?

Second cancers are not uncommon. About 1 in every 6 people diagnosed with cancer has had a different type of cancer in the past.

Why do people with cancer get it again?

Cancer recurs because small areas of cancer cells can remain in the body after treatment. Over time, these cells may multiply and grow large enough to cause symptoms or for tests to find them. When and where a cancer recurs depends on the type of cancer. Some cancers have an expected pattern of recurrence.

Can you survive a second cancer?

One to three percent of survivors develop a second cancer different from the originally treated cancer. The level of risk is small, and greater numbers of survivors are living longer due to improvements in treatment.

Why is secondary cancer not curable?

When we say advanced cancer, we usually mean cancer that cannot be cured. This might be because the cancer has spread to another part of the body (secondary cancer). But it may also be because treatment is not possible.