OBJECTIVES: I. Compare the progression-free survival and survival of patients with advanced cervical cancer limited to the pelvis receiving either radiotherapy alone, or radiotherapy plus weekly cisplatin, or radiotherapy plus prolonged venous infusion (PVI) of fluorouracil. [Radiotherapy alone regimen closed 8/18/98] II. Determine the relative toxic effects of radiation therapy plus chemotherapy with either weekly cisplatin or PVI fluorouracil compared to radiation alone. [Radiotherapy alone regimen closed 8/18/98] IV. Compare the progression-free survival and survival of patients with advanced cervical cancer limited to the pelvis and who smoke at the time of diagnosis versus non-smokers and those who smoke during radiation therapy versus those who quit.