Do young adults with cancer receive information about treatment‐related impact on sex life? Results from a population‐based study

Abstract

Background Sexual dysfunction is common following a cancer diagnosis in young adulthood (18–39 years) and problems related to sex life are ranked among the core concerns in this age group. Yet, few studies have investigated to what extent adults younger than 40, receive information from healthcare providers about the potential impact of cancer and its treatment on their sex life. Methods A population‐based cross‐sectional survey study was conducted with 1010 young adults 1.5 years after being diagnosed with cancer (response rate 67%). Patients with breast, cervical, ovarian and testicular cancer, lymphoma, and brain tumors were identified in national quality registries. Sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with receiving information were examined using multivariable binary logistic regression. Results Men to a higher extent than women reported having received information about potential cancer‐related impact on their sex life (68% vs. 54%, p < 0.001). Receipt of information varied across diagnoses; in separate regression models, using lymphoma as reference, both women and men with brain tumors were less likely to receive information (women: OR 0.10, CI = 0.03–0.30; men: OR 0.37, CI = 0.16–0.85). More intensive treatment was associated with higher odds of receiving information in both women (OR 1.89; CI = 1.28–2.79) and men (OR 2.08; CI = 1.09–3.94). None of the sociodemographic factors were associated with receipt of information. Conclusions To improve sexual health communication to young adults with cancer, we recommend diagnosis‐specific routines that clarify when in the disease trajectory to discuss these issues with patients and what to address in these conversations.

Sexuality, intimacy, and body image among adolescents and young adults with cancer: a qualitative, explorative study

“…This finding is aligned with results from a cross-sectional study ( N = 56) by Albers et al [ 36 ] who found that only 41% of AYAs did receive information about sexual health from a healthcare professional, and only 21% found the information satisfactory. Also, a nationwide population-based study ( N = 1010) by Bergström et al [ 38 ] reported that men to a higher extent than women reported having received information about the potential cancer-related impact on their sex life (68% vs. 54%, p < 0.001). The AYAs with cancer participating in our study provide suggestions for what and how to provide information about sexual health (see Table 4 ).…”

Sexual Problems as Late Effects: Awareness and Information Needs Among 1870 Long-term Norwegian Childhood, Adolescent, and Young Adult Cancer Survivors (The NOR-CAYACS Study)

“…Although not measuring awareness, discussions with HCPs about sexual problems as late effects have been associated with higher treatment intensity, male gender and HCP experience in studies of cancer survivor of all ages, not restricted to CAYACS. 14,43 Need for information about sexual problems as late effects was reported by about three times as many CAYACS (not including malignant melanomas) compared to the malignant melanoma group. Our findings align with previous studies reporting information needs among 15-50% of CAYACS of various cancers mainly in the first few years of survivorship, 16,[44][45][46][47] but provides novel insights that such needs persist decades beyond diagnosis.…”

“…12 Reporting sexual problems has been associated with increased treatment intensity, mental health issues, fatigue, and weight in CAYACS. [13][14][15][16][17] Addressing sexual problems is important as they are negatively associated with well-being and quality of life. [18][19][20][21] CAYACS experience more sexual problems than siblings or controls.…”

“…9,10,19,[21][22][23][24] They also report significant supportive care and information needs regarding sexuality, but many have not discussed, or are reluctant to raise, sexual matters with their health care providers (HCPs). 14,[25][26][27][28][29][30] This, combined with their young age, long life expectancy, and social and psychosexual development, makes it important for HCPs to address sexual function and health in the follow-up care of CAYACS. 11, 16,[31][32][33] A recent systematic review concluded that current knowledge of CAYACS' information needs regarding sexual problems is limited by a focus on early survivorship and cancers in reproductive organs during young adulthood (18-39 years).…”

Sexual health and testosterone concentration in male lymphoma survivors: A systematic review

“…Thus, testosterone deficiency and sexual health issues can manifest as long-term consequences of treatment. While many male patients are informed of the possible sexual health implications of treatment at diagnosis [ 3 ], there is a need for follow-up on the subject after cessation of lymphoma treatment [ [4] , [5] , [6] ].…”