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Gorman JR, Drizin JH, Smith E, Flores-Sanchez Y, Harvey SM. Patient-Centered Communication to Address Young Adult Breast Cancer Survivors' Reproductive and Sexual Health Concerns. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2021; 36:1743-1758. [PMID: 32703034 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2020.1794550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Women faced with a diagnosis of breast cancer as young adults commonly experience negative effects of cancer and cancer treatment on their reproductive and sexual health (RSH) that are inadequately addressed by their healthcare providers (HCPs). The objectives of this study were to 1) identify approaches to improving RSH communication from YA breast cancer survivors' perspectives, 2) identify facilitators and barriers to the approaches identified, and 3) identify specific strategies to improve patient-centered RSH communication. We conducted individual telephone interviews with 29 women who were diagnosed with breast cancer under age 40 years. We used a grounded theory approach to identify themes, and explored how the themes related to the PCC framework to elucidate specific strategies for improving communication. Three main themes emerged: 1) Normalizing and integrating assessment of RSH concerns; 2) HCP conveying genuine caring and investment; and 3) Improving accessibility of comprehensive RSH services after cancer. Results revealed concrete strategies for improving patient-centered RSH communication at the patient-provider and health system levels. These included reminding patients that RSH concerns are common, routinely asking about RSH, using active listening, and connecting patients to HCP who can address their RSH concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica R Gorman
- College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, 97331, OR, USA
| | - Julia H Drizin
- College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, 97331, OR, USA
| | - Ellie Smith
- College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, 97331, OR, USA
| | | | - S Marie Harvey
- College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, 97331, OR, USA
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Iqbal S, Akkour K, Bano B, Hussain G, Elhelow MKKA, Al-Mutairi AM, Aljasim BSK. Awareness about Vulvovaginal Aesthetics Procedures among Medical Students and Health Professionals in Saudi Arabia. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE GINECOLOGIA E OBSTETRÍCIA 2021; 43:178-184. [PMID: 33860501 PMCID: PMC10183919 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1725050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to explore the opinion and ethical consideration of vulvovaginal aesthetics procedures (VVAPs) among health professionals and medical students in Saudi Arabia. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study performed between January 2020 and April 2020. Data was collected through electronic media, WhatsApp, and emails. The results were analyzed by applying the Students t-test, and correlations were considered significant if they presented a p-value < 0.05. RESULTS There is significant demand to educate doctors, health professionals, medical students, and gynecologists for the VVAPs to have a solid foundation, justified indications, and knowledge about various aesthetic options. Although female doctors, medical students, young doctors, and gynecologists have more knowledge about VVAPs, all health professionals ought to be aware of recent trends in vulvovaginal aesthetics (VVA). The present analysis determined that VVA should be under the domain of gynecologists, rather than under that of plastic surgeons, general surgeons, and cosmetologists. The majority of the participants considered that vaginal rejuvenation, "G-spot" augmentation, clitoral surgery, and hymenoplasty are not justifiable on medical grounds. CONCLUSION The decision to opt for different techniques for vaginal tightening and revitalization should be taken very carefully, utilizing the shared decision-making approach. Ethical aspects and moral considerations are important key factors before embarking in the VVAPs purely for cosmetic reasons. Further research is required to determine the sexual, psychological, and body image outcomes for women who underwent elective VVAPs. Moreover, medical educators must consider VVAPs as part of the undergraduate and postgraduate medical curriculum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shazia Iqbal
- Alfarabi College of Medicine Riyadh, Alfarabi, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Bushra Bano
- Allama Iqbal Medical College, Lahore, Pakistan
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Benedict C, Hahn AL, McCready A, Kelvin JF, Diefenbach M, Ford JS. Toward a theoretical understanding of young female cancer survivors' decision-making about family-building post-treatment. Support Care Cancer 2020; 28:4857-4867. [PMID: 31993754 PMCID: PMC7384920 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-020-05307-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Family-building after gonadotoxic treatment often requires in vitro fertilization, surrogacy, or adoption, with associated challenges such as uncertain likelihood of success, high costs, and complicated laws regulating surrogacy and adoption. This study examined adolescent and young adult female (AYA-F) survivors' experiences and decision-making related to family-building after cancer. METHODS Semi-structured interviews explored fertility and family-building themes (N = 25). Based on an a priori conceptual model, hypothesis coding and grounded theory coding methods guided qualitative analysis. RESULTS Participants averaged 29 years old (SD = 6.2) were mostly White and educated. Four major themes were identified: sources of uncertainty, cognitive and emotional reactions, coping behaviors, and decision-making. Uncertainty stemmed from medical, personal, social, and financial factors, which led to cognitive, emotional, and behavioral reactions to reduce distress, renegotiate identity, adjust expectations, and consider "next steps" toward family-building goals. Most AYA-Fs were unaware of their fertility status, felt uninformed about family-building options, and worried about expected challenges. Despite feeling that "action" was needed, many were stalled in decision-making to evaluate fertility or address information needs; postponement and avoidance were common. Younger AYA-Fs tended to be less concerned. CONCLUSION AYA-Fs reported considerable uncertainty, distress, and unmet needs surrounding family-building decisions post-treatment. Support services are needed to better educate patients and provide opportunity for referral and early preparation for potential challenges. Reproductive counseling should occur throughout survivorship care to address medical, psychosocial, and financial difficulties, allow time for informed decision-making, and the opportunity to prepare for barriers such as high costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Benedict
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, 401 Quarry Rd, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
| | | | - Alyssa McCready
- Center for Health Innovation and Outcomes Research, Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | | | - Michael Diefenbach
- Center for Health Innovation and Outcomes Research, Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer S Ford
- Hunter College and The Graduate Center, City University of New York (CUNY), New York, NY, USA
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Schrager S, Larson M, Carlson J, Ledford K, Ehrenthal DB. Beyond Birth Control: Noncontraceptive Benefits of Hormonal Methods and Their Key Role in the General Medical Care of Women. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2020; 29:937-943. [PMID: 32155101 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2019.7731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Contraceptives that contain estrogen and/or progestins are used by millions of women around the world to prevent pregnancy. Owing to their unique physiological mechanism of action, many of these medications can also be used to prevent cancer and treat multiple general medical conditions that are common in women. We performed a comprehensive literature search. This article will describe the specific mechanisms of action and summarize the available data documenting how hormonal contraceptives can prevent ovarian and uterine cancer and be used to treat women with a variety of gynecological and nongynecological conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, heavy menstrual bleeding, polycystic ovary syndrome, acne, and migraines. Contraceptive methods containing estrogen and progestin can be used for a wide variety of medical issues in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarina Schrager
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Magnolia Larson
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Jensena Carlson
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Kathryn Ledford
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Deborah B Ehrenthal
- Department of Obstetrics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin.,Department of Gynecology and Population Health Sciences, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
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Lehmann V, Kutteh WH, Sparrow CK, Bjornard KL, Klosky JL. Fertility-related services in pediatric oncology across the cancer continuum: a clinic overview. Support Care Cancer 2019; 28:3955-3964. [PMID: 31872295 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-019-05248-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Fertility-related services in pediatric oncology are increasing, but barriers to care remain and few structured programs are described in the literature. Therefore, the study objectives were (1) to characterize fertility-related services in a large pediatric oncology center and (2) to discuss recommendations for fertility-related services across the pediatric cancer continuum. METHODS Medical records of all cases referred to our Fertility Preservation Clinic within a 3-year period were reviewed, which included 292 patients/survivors with malignant disease. Approximately half (n = 152/292, 52.1%) were cancer patients referred prior to treatment (n = 92/152) or while on active therapy (n = 60/152). The other half (n = 140/292; 47.9%) were survivors who had completed treatment. RESULTS Referrals more than doubled over 3 years. Most patients referred before treatment were offered and opted for FP (72.8% attempted; 58.9% completed). More male than female patients opted for FP (77.6% vs. 22.4%), but completion rates were higher among females (93.3% vs. 76.9%). Rates of FP before treatment did not increase over time (p = .752). Many patients on-treatment were referred for infertility risk counseling, demonstrating information/support needs in this group. Referred survivors questioned their fertility post-treatment and completed fertility assessments, indicating intact fertility among few (~ 15%). CONCLUSIONS This review demonstrated the acceptance and increasing need for fertility-related services in pediatric oncology across the cancer continuum, including FP before treatment, counseling during treatment, and fertility assessment in survivorship. Based on our experiences, current recommendations are discussed and include standardized procedures, streamlined referrals, adequate communication/education (of providers and families), and meeting specific needs of young cancer patients/survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicky Lehmann
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Pl, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA.
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - William H Kutteh
- Department of Surgery, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Pl, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
- Fertility Associates of Memphis, 80 Humphreys Center Drive, Memphis, TN, 38120, USA
| | - Charlene K Sparrow
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Pl, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Kari L Bjornard
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Pl, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - James L Klosky
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Pl, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
- The Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, 5461 Meridian Mark Rd, Atlanta, GA, 30342, USA
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Lehmann V, Chemaitilly W, Lu L, Green DM, Kutteh WH, Brinkman TM, Srivastava DK, Robison LL, Hudson MM, Klosky JL. Gonadal Functioning and Perceptions of Infertility Risk Among Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer: A Report From the St Jude Lifetime Cohort Study. J Clin Oncol 2019; 37:893-902. [PMID: 30811296 DOI: 10.1200/jco.18.00965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe perceptions of infertility risk among adult survivors of childhood cancer, to test the concordance of survivors' risk perceptions and their adult fertility status, and to identify explanatory factors (sociodemographic factors, gonadotoxic treatments, reproductive history, sexual dysfunction) associated with these outcomes. PATIENTS AND METHODS Adult childhood cancer survivors (N = 1,067; without children or a history of pregnancies) completed questionnaires that asked about infertility risk perceptions and participated in physical evaluations, including biomarkers of gonadal functioning (eg, semen analysis, blood hormone levels, menses). Multivariable regression models tested associations between explanatory factors and risk perceptions as well as concordance of perceptions and fertility status. RESULTS Most childhood cancer survivors (61.9%) perceived themselves at increased risk for infertility, which was significantly associated with sociodemographic factors (older age, white ethnicity, being married/partnered, higher education), gonadotoxic treatments, fertility concerns, previous unsuccessful attempts to conceive, and sexual dysfunction (all P < .05). Laboratory-evaluated impaired gonadal function was found in 24.3% of female and 55.6% of male survivors, but concordance with survivors' risk perceptions was low (Cohen's κ < .19). Most survivors with discordant perceptions overestimated risk (ie, perceived being at risk, though fertility status seemed normal; 19.7% of male and 43.6% of female survivors), whereas a minority underestimated risk (ie, perceived no risk but were impaired/infertile; 16.3% of male and 5.3% of female survivors). Factors related to discordance included sociodemographics, gonadotoxic treatments, fertility concerns, and sexual dysfunction (all P < .05). CONCLUSION Although childfree survivors may correctly consider themselves at risk for infertility on the basis of their previous treatments, such risk perceptions were discordant from laboratory-evaluated fertility status among many survivors in adulthood. Thus, repeated fertility-related communication throughout survivorship is essential, because treatment-indicated risk does not equal fertility status after treatment. Offering fertility testing to those who were at risk and/or those with fertility-related concerns is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lu Lu
- 1 St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | | | - William H Kutteh
- 1 St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN.,2 Fertility Associates of Memphis, Memphis, TN
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