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Overview of sexual dysfunction in patients with cancer

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Abstract

Among survivor’s patients with cancer, sexual dysfunction (SD) is a common treatment-related disturbance that significantly affects their quality of life. The disorder can be a short-term effect, but frequently it can be permanent and patients often do not receive adequate support to overcome the problem. The characteristics of SD may differ depending on the type of neoplasm and oncological treatment. The most common long-term effects are those related to treatment-induced menopause, ablative oncologic surgery, and altered gonadal function. Breast, prostate, and gynecologic cancers are the tumors most commonly associated with disturbances in sexual health, although there is evidence of SD in patients with other types of neoplasms. It is necessary for the healthcare team caring for oncological patients to be aware of the characteristics of sexual dysfunction in this population. This will make it possible to offer patients a comprehensive and personalized approach to improve their quality of life.

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  1. Instituto Investigación Sanitaria Puerta de Hierro - Segovia de Arana (IDIPHISA), Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro Majadahonda, Calle Manuel de Falla 1, 28222, Madrid, Spain

    Aylen Vanessa Ospina Serrano

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AVO reports consultant fees from AstraZeneca, Bristol Myers Squibb Company, Pfizer, Merck, Takeda Oncology and Roche; and support for attending meetings and/or travel from Pfizer, Roche, MSD, and Janssen.

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Ospina Serrano, A.V. Overview of sexual dysfunction in patients with cancer. Clin Transl Oncol 25, 3369–3377 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12094-023-03311-5

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