Sexual function in male lymphoma survivors versus matched controls: Relationship to age, gonadal hormones, and quality of life

Abstract

9510 Background: Sexual function in male lymphoma survivors (LS) was examined and compared to age-matched controls from the general population (CTR). Methods: The study includes 294 LSs, diagnosed 1980–2002, treated at the Norwegian Radium Hospital, ≤50 years at diagnosis, with recent gonadal hormone levels [testosterone (T), SHBG, LH, and FSH]. Sexual function was assessed using the Brief Male Sexual Function Inventory (BSFI) consisting of 11 self-report items covering five domains: sexual drive, erectile function, ejaculatory function, problem assessment and overall satisfaction. Lower scores indicate impaired sexual function. A total BSFI score (T-BSFI) was constructed by summing all items except overall satisfaction. Mean and median scores for the BSFI domains and T-BSFI were compared across age groups (21–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69 years at survey), gonadal hormone levels [normal (n=144), elevated FSH only (n=60), low T and/or elevated LH (n=90)], cancer treatment intensity, comorbidity, relationship status, fatigue score, mental distress (HADS) and quality of life (SF-36, mental and physical health components). Multivariate linear regression analysis was performed with T-BSFI as the dependent variable including independent variables significant in univariate analyses. Each LS was matched to two CTRs (n=506). Results: Valid T-BSFI scores were available for 253 LSs (86%). Median age at survey was 48 years, median duration of follow-up 15 years, and 78% were in a committed relationship. LSs aged 40–59 years had significantly lower T-BSFIs compared to their CTRs (p≤0.01). All BSFI domain scores and T-BSFI decreased significantly with ageing. LSs with low T and/or elevated LH had the lowest BSFI domain and T-BSFI scores. Survivors with normal hormone levels had the highest scores. Low T and/or elevated LH (p=0.03), age ≥50 years at survey (p≤ 0.001) and mental distress (p< 0.001) were significantly associated with male sexual dysfunction (T-BSFI) in the multivariate analysis. Conclusions: LSs aged 40–59 years reported poorer sexual function than age-matched CTRs. Impaired sexual function was significantly associated with age ≥ 50 years at survey, having low T and/or elevated LH and being distressed. No significant financial relationships to disclose.