Patient-Reported Sexual Function in Long-Term Survivors of Anal Cancer Treated With Definitive Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy and Concurrent Chemotherapy

Abstract

PurposePelvic chemoradiation can have a profound effect on sexual function. Few data exist describing long-term sexual function patient-reported outcomes (PROs) for patients treated with intensity modulated radiation and concurrent chemotherapy (CRT) for squamous cell carcinoma of the anus (SCCA). Methods and MaterialsWe identified 248 patients with SCCA treated with CRT from 2010 to 2018 who were alive and without recurrence. We sent a PRO survey to 148 patients who agreed to participate. The survey was comprised of the PROMIS sexual function and satisfaction questionnaire, the international index of erectile function 5-item questionnaire for men, and the female sexual function index questionnaire for women. Clinical and dosimetric data were collected for each patient. We used multiple regression models to identify factors associated with sexual function PROs. ResultsOne-hundred twelve patients (45.2% of all eligible patients, 75.7% of administered surveys) completed the survey; 90 (80.4%) were women, 107 (95.5%) were white. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) age was 61.5 (53.8-66.0) years. The median (IQR) interval since CRT was 51 (37-85) months. Twelve men (54.5%) and 52 women (57.1%) were sexually active. The median (IQR) age of sexually active patients was 58.2 (50.1-64) years compared with 64.8 (59.1-68.8) years for sexually inactive patients (P < .001). The median (IQR) female sexual function index score for sexually active women was 20.2 (13.6-25.1). The median (IQR) international index of erectile function 5-item questionnaire score was 14 (6.5-19). ConclusionsPatients treated with modern CRT for SCCA experience significant long-term sexual dysfunction as reported using validated PROs. Interventions to reduce sexual toxicities and improve patient support are needed.