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McDowell L, Gough K, White I, Corry J, Rischin D. Sexual Health, sexuality and sexual intimacy in patients with head and neck cancer - A narrative review. Oral Oncol 2024; 157:106975. [PMID: 39083855 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2024.106975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Sexuality and sexual intimacy are important aspects of cancer survivorship. In head and neck cancer (HNC), concerns around sexual health, sexuality and sexual intimacy are infrequently raised or addressed in standard HNC consultations, either before embarking on treatment or during survivorship. The changing demographic of HNC patients, largely due to the increasing proportion of patients with human papillomavirus-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPVOPSCC), has driven renewed interest in some specific survivorship issues, including sexual behaviours and lifestyles, which may account for both the primary mode of HPV transmission and the younger and less comorbid population affected by this disease. While HNC survivors may have many complex needs in the short and longer term, some patients may prioritise preserving sexual function above other more HNC-specific issues, such as swallowing and xerostomia. Beyond HPVOPSCC, there is evidence to suggest that impairment of sexual health is a pervasive survivorship issue across all HNC cancer types, and this narrative review article highlights publications reporting quantitative assessments of sexual health outcomes in HNC patients. There are also limited studies evaluating whether current sexual health models of care are adequate for HNC patients or whether new or adapted models are needed. Future research will also need to define the impact of our treatments on the sexuality and sexual intimacy concerns of specific HNC cohorts with more granularity to enhance pre- and post-treatment counselling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lachlan McDowell
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
| | - Karla Gough
- Department of Cancer Experiences, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - June Corry
- Genesis Care St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Danny Rischin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Lewis S, Stevens E, Harkess-Murphy E, Papadopoulou C. The Effects of Head and Neck Cancer on Relationship Intimacy in Adults: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Semin Oncol Nurs 2024; 40:151689. [PMID: 38997888 DOI: 10.1016/j.soncn.2024.151689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This systematic literature review aimed to explore the effects of head and neck cancer (HNC) on relationship intimacy in adults and identify the current support available to patients with HNC and their partners in relation to relationship intimacy. METHODS Seven databases (CINAHL, Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, SocINDEX, PsycARTICLES, Psychology, and Behavioural Science Collection) were searched using grouped terms "head and neck cancer and intimacy" and "head and neck cancer and support." Studies written in English to assess adult patients with HNC and its effects on relationship intimacy and studies assessing the use of intimacy-specific support tools/methods were included. The review protocol was registered in June 2022 with PROSPERO ID: CRD42022329614. RESULTS Thirty publications were included within the review. Six topics emerged: relationships, communication, sexual interest, barriers, couples-based communication intervention strategies, and assessment tools. While there were positive dyadic changes observed, many patients reported negative experiences relating to changes in relationship roles, sexual issues, and poor communication with partners and health care professionals that affected intimacy. There were 5 interventions identified; of those, the results varied, with some improvements noted in psychological well-being but not necessarily sexual interest and enjoyment. CONCLUSIONS HNC profoundly affects relationship intimacy. However, both patients and health care professionals find it challenging to discuss these issues, often leaving it an unmet need. Appropriate training and development for health care professionals that facilitate communication between clinician and patient are necessary to support conversations on intimacy needs. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE There exists a need for patients to receive support in relation to intimacy following diagnosis and treatment, and the evidence suggests that this may be more effective post-treatment and from health care professionals who are appropriately trained. Couples' communication interventions may prove useful, but further research is required on the efficacy of combining both psychological and sexual support together.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Lewis
- PhD Student and Lecturer, School of Health & Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland, Paisley Campus, Paisley, UK.
| | - Elaine Stevens
- Senior Lecturer, School of Health & Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland, Paisley Campus, Paisley, UK
| | - Eileen Harkess-Murphy
- Lecturer, School of Health & Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland, Paisley Campus, Paisley, UK
| | - Constantina Papadopoulou
- Reader, School of Health & Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland, Lanarkshire Campus, Hamilton, UK
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Barry B, Dolivet G, Clatot F, Huguet F, Abdeddaim C, Baujat B, Blanchard N, Calais G, Carrat X, Chatellier A, Coste F, Cupissol D, Cuvelier P, De Mones Del Pujol E, Deneuve S, Duffas O, Dupret-Bories A, Even C, Evrard C, Evrard D, Faivre S, Fakhry N, Garrel R, Gorphe P, Houliat T, Kaminsky MC, Krebs L, Lapeyre M, Lindas P, Malard O, Mirghani H, Mondina M, Moriniere S, Mouawad F, Pestre-Munier J, Pham Dang N, Picard A, Ramin L, Renard S, Salvan D, Schernberg A, Sire C, Thariat J, Vanbockstael J, Vo Tan D, Wojcik T, Klein I, Block V, Baumann-Bouscaud L, De Raucourt D. [French national standard for the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of upper aero-digestive tract - General principles of treatment]. Bull Cancer 2024; 111:393-415. [PMID: 38418334 DOI: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2023.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The management of upper aerodigestive tract cancers is a complex specialty. It is essential to provide an update to establish optimal care. At the initiative of the INCa and under the auspices of the SFORL, the scientific committee, led by Professor Béatrix Barry, Dr. Gilles Dolivet, and Dr. Dominique De Raucourt, decided to develop a reference framework aimed at defining, in a scientific and consensus-based manner, the general principles of treatment for upper aerodigestive tract cancers applicable to all sub-locations. METHODOLOGY To develop this framework, a multidisciplinary team of practitioners was formed. A systematic analysis of the literature was conducted to produce recommendations classified by grades, in accordance with the standards of the French National Authority for Health (HAS). RESULTS The grading of recommendations according to HAS standards has allowed the establishment of a reference for patient care based on several criteria. In this framework, patients benefit from differentiated care based on prognostic factors they present (age, comorbidities, TNM status, HPV status, etc.), conditions of implementation, and quality criteria for indicated surgery (operability, resectability, margin quality, mutilation, salvage surgery), as well as quality criteria for radiotherapy (target volume, implementation time, etc.). The role of medical and postoperative treatments was also evaluated based on specific criteria. Finally, supportive care must be organized from the beginning and throughout the patients' care journey. CONCLUSION All collected data have led to the development of a comprehensive framework aimed at harmonizing practices nationally, facilitating decision-making in multidisciplinary consultation meetings, promoting equality in practices, and providing a state-of-the-art and reference practices for assessing the quality of care. This new framework is intended to be updated every 5 years to best reflect the latest advances in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Béatrix Barry
- AP-HP, hôpital Bichat-Claude-Bernard, ORL et CCF, Paris (75), France
| | - Gilles Dolivet
- Institut de cancérologie de Lorraine, ORL et CCF, Nancy (54), France.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Olivier Duffas
- Centre hospitalier de Libourne, ORL et CMF, Libourne, France
| | | | | | | | - Diane Evrard
- AP-HP, hôpital Bichat-Claude-Bernard, ORL et CCF, Paris (75), France
| | | | - Nicolas Fakhry
- Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, ORL et CCF, Marseille, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Didier Salvan
- Centre hospitalier Sud Francilien, ORL et CCF, Corbeil-Essonnes, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Isabelle Klein
- Dispositif Spécifique Régional du Cancer Grand Est - NEON, Nancy (54), France
| | - Véronique Block
- Dispositif Spécifique Régional du Cancer Grand Est - NEON, Nancy (54), France
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Stone MA, Lissenberg-Witte BI, de Bree R, Hardillo JA, Lamers F, Langendijk JA, Leemans CR, Takes RP, Jansen F, Verdonck-de Leeuw IM. Changes in Sexuality and Sexual Dysfunction over Time in the First Two Years after Treatment of Head and Neck Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4755. [PMID: 37835448 PMCID: PMC10571543 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15194755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate changes in sexuality and sexual dysfunction in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients in the first two years after treatment, in relation to the type of treatment. Data were used of 588 HNC patients participating in the prospective NETherlands Quality of life and Biomedical Cohort Study (NET-QUBIC) from diagnosis to 3, 6, 12 and 24 months after treatment. Primary outcome measures were the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). The total scores of the IIEF and FSFI were dichotomized into sexual (dys)function. In men, type of treatment was significantly associated with change in erectile function, orgasm, satisfaction with intercourse, and overall satisfaction. In women, type of treatment was significantly associated with change in desire, arousal, and orgasm. There were significant differences between treatment groups in change in dysfunctional sexuality. A deterioration in sexuality and sexual dysfunction from baseline to 3 months after treatment was observed especially in patients treated with chemoradiation. Changes in sexuality and sexual dysfunction in HNC patients were related to treatment, with an acute negative effect of chemoradiation. This effect on the various domains of sexuality seems to differ between men and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margot A. Stone
- Department Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (M.A.S.); (C.R.L.); (F.J.)
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Treatment and Quality of Life, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Birgit I. Lissenberg-Witte
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Treatment and Quality of Life, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Remco de Bree
- Department of Head and Neck Surgical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands;
| | - Jose A. Hardillo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Femke Lamers
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes A. Langendijk
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands;
| | - C. René Leemans
- Department Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (M.A.S.); (C.R.L.); (F.J.)
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Treatment and Quality of Life, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Robert P. Takes
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
| | - Femke Jansen
- Department Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (M.A.S.); (C.R.L.); (F.J.)
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Treatment and Quality of Life, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Irma M. Verdonck-de Leeuw
- Department Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (M.A.S.); (C.R.L.); (F.J.)
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Treatment and Quality of Life, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Caetano RS, Lima FF, Gomes EP, Volpato LE. Quality of Life of Patients After Treatment for Cancer in the Head and Neck Region: A Case-Control Study. Cureus 2022; 14:e25800. [PMID: 35822149 PMCID: PMC9270949 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.25800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: It is known that side effects caused by antineoplastic therapy can affect patients' quality of life (QOL). However, the long-term effects on patients’ quality of life are not well known. This study aimed to evaluate patients' quality of life who underwent radiotherapy for head and neck cancer lasting more than six months compared to individuals who did not experience treatment. Methods: Thirty-three patients who underwent treatment for cancer in the head and neck region for at least six months and sixty-six individuals without cancer matched for age and sex were given the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C30/QLQ-H & N35 questionnaires. Other pertinent information from patients was taken from the hospital chart. The Mann-Whitney nonparametric test was applied to verify the statistical significance of the difference in means between the groups, and a significance of 5% was considered. Results: Group 1 consisted of 33 patients with a mean age of 63.42 ± 11.25 years; 81.8% were smokers; 84.8% were drinkers; the sites most affected by cancer were the palate/oropharynx and the floor of the mouth (7 cases), and the most common type was epidermoid carcinoma (78.79%). The overall quality of life was 61.62. Among group 2 patients, the average age was 64.27; 84.85% were smokers, and 65.15% were drinkers. The overall quality of life was 71.46 in group 2. There was a group of variables in which the scores of patients without cancer were statistically lower (better quality of life) than those presented by cancer patients, namely, loss of appetite, pain, swallowing, cognitive problems, speech problems, problems eating in public, sexuality, teeth, mouth opening, dry mouth, sticky saliva, nutritional supplements, feeding tube, and weight gain. Conclusion: Patients who underwent antineoplastic treatment for more than six months had a worse overall quality of life than individuals who did not experience such treatment. These patients had worse results in the components of appetite loss, pain, swallowing, cognitive problems, speech problems, problems with public eating, sexuality, teeth, mouth opening, dry mouth, sticky saliva, nutritional supplement, feeding tube, and weight gain.
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Verdonck-de Leeuw IM, Melissant H, Lissenberg-Witte BI, Baatenburg de Jong RJ, den Heijer M, Langendijk JA, René Leemans C, Smit JH, Takes RP, Terhaard CHJ, Jansen F, Laan E. Associations between testosterone and patient reported sexual outcomes among male and female head and neck cancer patients before and six months after treatment: A pilot study. Oral Oncol 2021; 121:105505. [PMID: 34461364 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2021.105505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate associations between testosterone and patient reported sexual problems and need for sexual care in head and neck cancer patients at time of diagnosis and 6 months after treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS Data and samples were used of 40 patients (20 men, 20 women) before and 6 months after treatment. Outcome measures were total testosterone level (TT) and free testosterone index (FTI), testosterone insufficiency (TI), the EORTC QLQ-HN35 Sexuality subscale, the subscales of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and the Sexuality subscale of the Short-Form Supportive Care Needs Survey (SCNS-SF34). RESULTS In men, higher FTI before treatment was significantly associated with better IIEF Orgasm (p = 0.020) and at 6 months follow-up with IIEF Desire (p = 0.019). Before treatment, insufficient testosterone was present in 5 males (25%) and in 3 at follow-up (15%) (2 patients who had TI before treatment plus one). In women, higher TT at follow-up was significantly associated with better EORTC Sexuality (p = 0.031) and FSFI Satisfaction (p = 0.020); FTI at follow-up was associated with FSFI Satisfaction (p = 0.012). Before treatment, TI was present in 2 women (10%) and in 3 (15%) at follow-up (the same 2 patients plus one). CONCLUSION This pilot study showed that testosterone seems to be associated with patient reported sexual outcomes among male and female head and neck cancer patients. It is estimated that 10-25% of HNC patients may have testosterone insufficiency before treatment and/or at 6 months after treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irma M Verdonck-de Leeuw
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Sciences & Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Center Amsterdam Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Heleen Melissant
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Center Amsterdam Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Birgit I Lissenberg-Witte
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Robert J Baatenburg de Jong
- Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Erasmus Cancer Institute, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Martin den Heijer
- Department of Internal Medicine, AmsterdamUMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Johannes A Langendijk
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - C René Leemans
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Center Amsterdam Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Johannes H Smit
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Robert P Takes
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Chris H J Terhaard
- Department of Radiotherapy, University Medical Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Femke Jansen
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Center Amsterdam Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ellen Laan
- Department of Sexology and Psychosomatic OBGYN, Amsterdam Medical Center, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Casswell G, Gough K, Drosdowsky A, Bressel M, Coleman A, Shrestha S, D’Costa I, Fua T, Tiong A, Liu C, Rischin D, McDowell L. Sexual Health and Interpersonal Relationships After Chemoradiation Therapy for Human Papillomavirus-Associated Oropharyngeal Cancer: A Cross-sectional Study. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2021; 110:382-393. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2020.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Schutte LER, Melissant HC, Jansen F, Lissenberg-Witte BI, Leemans CR, Sprangers MAG, Vergeer MR, Verdonck-de Leeuw IM, Laan ETM. Effect of Stepped Care on Sexual Interest and Enjoyment in Distressed Patients with Head and Neck Cancer: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Sex Med 2021; 9:100304. [PMID: 33460907 PMCID: PMC7930858 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2020.100304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction A recent randomized controlled trial (RCT) in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) with psychological distress showed that a stepped care (SC) program targeting psychological distress compared with care as usual (CAU), is (cost)effective in reducing psychological distress. Aim The aim of the present study was to investigate whether SC can coalleviate problems with sexual interest and enjoyment. A secondary aim was to investigate whether the presence of an unmet sexual health need and having a psychiatric disorder (depression or anxiety) at baseline moderated any effect of SC on these sexual variables until 1-year follow-up. Methods HNC survivors (N = 134), randomized to SC or CAU, were assessed regarding their sexual interest and enjoyment before and after the intervention and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months follow-up. Linear mixed models were used to evaluate differences in the course of sexual interest and enjoyment between SC and CAU. Main Outcome Measure The “sexuality” symptom subscale, part of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer, Quality of Life Questionnaire, Head and Neck Cancer–specific module. Results Of all patients, 76.1% had an unmet sexual need at baseline, 24.6% had a psychiatric disorder (anxiety or depression). SC did not reduce problems with sexual interest and enjoyment at any of the follow-up measurements compared with CAU (P = .85). This was neither moderated by an unmet sexual health need at baseline (P = .64) nor by the presence of a psychiatric disorder at baseline (P = .59). Conclusion A substantial number of patients with HNC have unmet sexual health needs. SC targeting psychological distress does not reduce problems with sexuality in these patients. Interventions specifically targeting sexuality are recommended. Schutte LER, Melissant HC, Jansen F, et al. Effect of Stepped Care on Sexual Interest and Enjoyment in Distressed Patients with Head and Neck Cancer: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Sex Med 2021;9:100304.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E R Schutte
- Department of Sexology and Psychosomatic Gynaecology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Heleen C Melissant
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Sciences, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Femke Jansen
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Sciences, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VUmc, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Birgit I Lissenberg-Witte
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VUmc, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C René Leemans
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VUmc, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mirjam A G Sprangers
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marije R Vergeer
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VUmc, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Irma M Verdonck-de Leeuw
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Sciences, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VUmc, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen T M Laan
- Department of Sexology and Psychosomatic Gynaecology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Rhoten BA, Davis AJ, Baraff BN, Holler KH, Dietrich MS. Priorities and Preferences of Patients With Head and Neck Cancer for Discussing and Receiving Information About Sexuality and Perception of Self-Report Measures. J Sex Med 2020; 17:1529-1537. [PMID: 32417203 PMCID: PMC7664992 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2020.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Revised: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Head and neck cancer and its treatment can cause impairment in survivors' sexuality. Previous studies show a need for education and psychological support. AIM To examine patients' priorities and preferences for discussing and receiving information about sexuality and to examine patient perceptions of existing self-report measures used in research. METHODS This descriptive, cross-sectional, Web-based study recruited adults with a current or previous diagnosis of head and neck cancer. Participants answered questions about their priority and preference for receiving information about sexuality and reviewed 4 self-report measures commonly used in the research of this population. RESULTS More than 80% (n = 61) of participants reported that it was important to receive information about sexual issues. Participants chose "at the time of diagnosis" as the most frequent answer for preferred time to receive this information. Half of the participants (n = 35) indicated that they prefer discussing sexual issues with a health-care provider. The most frequent answer for the method of receiving information was through discussions. Participants endorsed 4 themes not addressed by self-report surveys: (i) elicitation of important information, (ii) symptom burden issues, (iii) psychological issues, and (iv) physical barriers. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Providers, regardless of specialty, must attempt or facilitate discussions around these issues at various times within the treatment and recovery phases. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS Although limited by sample representation and cross-sectional design, this study addresses an important patient-centered issue that is a critical aspect of quality of life. CONCLUSIONS Patients prefer to discuss sexual issues in person with their health-care providers at the time of diagnosis. Participants reacted positively to the self-report measures, but they felt that important issues faced by patients with head and neck cancer were not fully addressed. Rhoten BA, Davis AJ, Baraff BN, et al. Priorities and Preferences of Patients With Head and Neck Cancer for Discussing and Receiving Information About Sexuality and Perception of Self-Report Measures. J Sex Med 2020;17:1529-1537.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amanda J Davis
- Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Kelly H Holler
- Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, Nashville, TN, USA
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