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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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Babin E, Heutte N, Humbert M, Laccourreye O. Sex-related quality of life after total laryngectomy for cancer. Eur Ann Otorhinolaryngol Head Neck Dis 2023; 140:121-126. [PMID: 37142505 DOI: 10.1016/j.anorl.2023.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Analysis of the quality of sexual life after total laryngectomy (TL) for cancer. MATERIAL AND METHODS The Cochrane, PubMed, Embase, ClinicalKey and Science Direct databases were searched using the keywords: "total laryngectomy, sexual function, sexual behavior, sexual complications, sexual dysfunction, sexuality, intimacy". The abstracts of 69 articles were read by two of the authors and 24 articles were selected. The main endpoint was the impact of impairment of quality of sexual life after TL for cancer and the methods used to assess this. The secondary endpoints were the type of sexual impairment, associated variables and their treatment. RESULTS The study population consisted of 1511 TL patients aged 21 to 90 years, with a male/female sex ratio of 7.49. One of the 7 validated Likert scales was used in 79% of the articles to evaluate impairment of sexual quality of life. Impaired quality of sexual life was reported by 47% of patients on average (range, 5-90%). Erectile and ejaculatory function and ejaculatory behavior of male patients decreased after TL. Other impairments comprised decreases in libido, frequency of sexual intercourse and satisfaction. Tracheostomy, advanced disease stage, young age and associated depression were factors for impairment. In all, 23% of patients reported lack of postoperative support in this area. CONCLUSION The quality of sexual life is severely impacted by TL for cancer. The present data are a source of information and should be taken into account before carrying out TL. A common information tool needs to be developed. There is patient demand for improved management of sexuality.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Babin
- Service d'otorhinolaryngologie et de chirurgie cervicofaciale, laboratoire ANTICIPE, université de Caen, CHU de Côte-de-Nacre, 14000 Caen, France.
| | - N Heutte
- CETAPS UR3832, université de Rouen, boulevard Siegfried, 76821 Mont-Saint-Aignan cedex, France; Service de recherche clinique, CLCC François-Baclessec, Caen, France
| | - M Humbert
- Service d'otorhinolaryngologie et de chirurgie cervicofaciale, laboratoire ANTICIPE, université de Caen, CHU de Côte-de-Nacre, 14000 Caen, France
| | - O Laccourreye
- Service d'otorhinolaryngologie et de chirurgie cervicofaciale, HEGP, université de Paris-Cité, AP-HP, 20-40, rue Leblanc, 75015 Paris, France
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Vlachtsis K, Tsetsos N, Sotiroudi S, Stavrakas M, Fyrmpas G, Nikolaou A. Quality of Life After Total Laryngectomy: A Retrospective Study. Indian J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2022; 74:4982-4990. [PMID: 36742759 PMCID: PMC9895551 DOI: 10.1007/s12070-021-02575-z] [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: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Quality of life is severely affected in laryngeal cancer patients, who have undergone total laryngectomy, particularly with regard to cancer diagnosis and the consequences of total laryngectomy. The aim of the present study is to record and evaluate the problems related with the quality of life in laryngectomized patients. A further goal is to investigate, whether a correlation exists between demographics and clinical characteristics of the patients. Fifty male patients, who underwent total laryngectomy, participated in the study. Two questionnaires were used to test various quality of life parameters, the EORTC QLQ C30 version 3.0 and EORTC QLQ H&N35. Specific demographic and clinical data of the patients were also recorded. The overall quality of life index was similar in both studied patients and the reference group of cancer patients provided by the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC). However, the following discrepancies were noted: voice, senses, dyspnoea were more problematic in studied patients, whereas the functional status of cognitive, physical, social and emotional function were better. In most recorded symptoms, the intensity was mild. The demographic and clinical data appeared to have interesting correlations with specific functional aspects and symptoms. Although several quality of life aspects are found to be negatively affected in laryngectomized patients, overall quality of life appears to be satisfactory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Vlachtsis
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, “G. Papanikolaou” General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Tsetsos
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, “G. Papanikolaou” General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Sotiria Sotiroudi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, “G. Papanikolaou” General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Marios Stavrakas
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, UK
| | - Georgios Fyrmpas
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, “G. Papanikolaou” General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Angelos Nikolaou
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, “G. Papanikolaou” General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
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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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Gür H, Çayan S, Akbay E, Dölek EK, Özcan C, Görür K. The effect of partial and total laryngectomy on couples’ sexual functions in men with larynx cancer. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2020; 277:3397-3402. [DOI: 10.1007/s00405-020-06167-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Gallo O, Locatello LG, Larotonda G, Napoleone V, Cannavicci A. Nomograms for prediction of postoperative complications in open partial laryngeal surgery. J Surg Oncol 2018; 118:1050-1057. [DOI: 10.1002/jso.25232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Oreste Gallo
- Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine; Division of Otolaryngology, University of Florence; Firenze Italy
| | - Luca Giovanni Locatello
- Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine; Division of Otolaryngology, University of Florence; Firenze Italy
| | - Guglielmo Larotonda
- Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine; Division of Otolaryngology, University of Florence; Firenze Italy
| | - Vincenzo Napoleone
- Biodigita - Biostatistical Analysis Section, Gorgia Study Institute; Firenze Italy
| | - Angelo Cannavicci
- Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine; Division of Otolaryngology, University of Florence; Firenze Italy
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