Are there long-term effects of cancer?

Potential recurrence: The potential for cancer to recur after treatment is dependent on the type of cancer and it's stage. One of the most challenging aspects of a cancer DX is learning to live with this risk after completion of initial treatment. While we like to use words like "cure" and "remission", this is not always a perfect science. The goal is to be aware of this risk but not let it take over your life.

Yes, serious ones: Left untreated, cancers usually will make a person sick and kill the individual. However, effective treatments are available for most cancers and one should not delay seeking care.