Sexual side effects (SSE) reported by adolescent/young adult (AYA) versus older cancer survivors.

Abstract

9120 Background: AYA survivors may experience unique SSE compared to older survivors, and these may be difficult to measure. This Internet based study evaluates patient-reported SSE during cancer survivorship. Methods: Data were gathered via a convenience sample frame from cancer survivors voluntarily utilizing a publically available, free, Internet-based tool for creation of survivorship care plans. Available at www.livestrongcareplan.com and through the OncoLink website, it provides customized guidelines for survivor care. During use of the tool, survivors are queried regarding late effects for which they are at risk. All data have been maintained with IRB approval. Results: 3222 cancer survivors answered queries regarding SSE - 392 AYA and 2830 older survivors. Median age of AYA survivors was 30 (range 18–35; median diagnosis age 27). Median age of older survivors was 54 (range 36–93, median diagnosis age 50). AYA survivors were 70% female and older were 76% female. In the AYA cohort, most common cancer diagnoses were hematologic (30%), breast (25%), and genitourinary (GU) (18%), compared to breast (44%), gastrointestinal (11%), and GU (10%) in the older cohort. Among males, erectile dysfunction (ED) was reported by 7% of AYA and 33% of older survivors. Of these, 86% and 94%, respectively, reported no ED prior to treatment; 14% and 93%, respectively, reported that they had not maintained an erection until completion of intercourse since cancer treatment, and 23% and 15%, respectively, reported that they could do so about 50% of the time. Retrograde/dry ejaculation was reported by 53% of AYA and 23% of older survivors. Among females, sexual concerns such as vaginal dryness and shrinkage were reported by 47% of AYA and 59% of older survivors. Conclusions: Male and female cancer survivors using this tool report significant SSE after cancer treatment. SSE reported by AYA versus older male survivors differ, with AYA survivors reporting more retrograde/dry ejaculation and older survivors reporting more ED. SSE appear prominent among female survivors of all ages. This tool offers a unique way for survivors to report their experiences; the data reported here may be of significant impact in future patient counseling and survivor care.