Survey of the prevalence and severity of sexual dysfunction in breast cancer patients

Abstract

9557 Background: Advances in early detection and treatment have improved life expectancy in women with breast cancer (CaBr). However, long-term side effects from primary and adjuvant treatments impact quality of life including sexual function in women with breast cancer. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of women with early stage CaBr. Of 206 consecutive women screened, all were asked to complete the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), a 19-item validated questionnaire that asks about 6 domains: arousal, lubrication, desire, pain, orgasm, and satisfaction. Women were also asked if they were using any medications and/or non-pharmacologic interventions for symptoms. Scores were compared to published normal female controls. Abnormal was defined as >2 standard deviations below the mean of female controls. Baseline demographic and clinical characteristics were also obtained. Results: Of the 206 women approached, 167 (81%) responded. 29 were excluded who did not have stage I-III CaBr and analysis consisted of 117 patients. Main reasons for participant refusal were personal nature of the questions, no partner or not sexually active. Median age was 52 (range 29–82); White/Black/Hispanic/Other (%): 38/13/44/6; pre-/postmenopausal (%): 18/82; median BMI (kg/m2): 27 (17–61). Percentage of CaBr patients with abnormal FSFI scores were: Desire (43%), Arousal (54%), Lubrication (62%), Orgasm (46%), Satisfaction (50%), Pain (63%) and Total (57%). No significant differences found by race or ethnicity. Of 117 responders, only 6 (4.4%) reported use of lubricants as a non-pharmacologic intervention and 1 (0.74%) reported use of a synthetic estrogen gel. In a multivariate linear regression model, sexual dysfunction based on low total FSFI scores was significantly associated with being unmarried (p=0.02), postmenopausal status (p=0.05, regardless of early or late onset), and receipt of adriamycin-based chemotherapy (p=0.03). No association was seen with age, BMI or type of hormonal therapy. Conclusions: Our study suggests that sexual function in breast cancer patients is more prevalent and severe than what has been previously reported. More research is necessary to evaluate therapeutic interventions for sexual dysfunction in breast cancer patients. No significant financial relationships to disclose.