Sexual dysfunction and chronic illness. Part 1. Epidemiology, impact and significance

Abstract

Summary Chronic disease and disability affects 20% of the world population. Although prevention is much more prevalent today than in the past, screening and follow-up of these diseases, their consequences on sexuality and more broadly speaking, on the relationship between the subject and his/her partner, are still all too often underestimated and insufficiently managed. Objective Our objective is to investigate the importance of sexual dysfunctions in patients suffering from chronic pathologies, both in epidemiological terms and with regard to their psychological impact, effects on their relationships and their quality of life. Methodology Review of the scientific literature published since 1997 (Pubmed, Psych’info, Webscience). Results Patients suffering from a chronic disease are more frequently affected by sexual dysfunctions than a control group. Not only is the prevalence of sexual disorders higher, but the dysfunctions also carry more serious consequences from an emotional and interpersonal standpoint and on the subject's quality of life. Improvements in, or better compliance with the constraints of the disease and/or its treatment are very often directly correlated with management of the sexual difficulties where they exist, and improvements in that area.