1
|
Kállay É, Müller-Fabian A, Dégi CL. Fear of cancer progression and the quality of sexual life of female cancer patients in Romania. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1417681. [PMID: 38919914 PMCID: PMC11196963 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1417681] [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: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction As cancer survival rates increase, it has become crucial to pay attention to the long-term quality of life of survivors, including sexual functioning. The quality of sexual life and fear of cancer progression are often unmet needs, significantly impacting cancer patients' overall quality of life. In this study, we investigate these factors in Romanian female cancer patients and highlight their relationship with mental health and demographic variables. Methods This study included 242 Romanian female cancer patients who completed questionnaires assessing sexual functioning (EORTC QLQ-SHQ22), fear of cancer progression (FoP-Q), depression (PHQ-9), and anxiety (GAD-7). We examined these relationships using descriptive, exploratory, and regression analyses. Results Around 50% of patients reported impairments in sexual satisfaction and pain during sex. Lower sexual satisfaction increased sexual dysfunction, and heightened fear of cancer progression (FCP) were associated with depression, anxiety, younger age, lower education, rural residence, and unmarried status. Discussion This study reveals a complex interplay between sexual health, fear of cancer progression, and psychological well-being among female cancer survivors in Romania. Addressing sexual concerns, providing psychoeducation, promoting coping with the fear of progression, and utilizing interdisciplinary interventions are essential to improving these patients' overall quality of life. These findings underscore the need for integrated care approaches that consider both physical and psychological dimensions of cancer survivorship.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Éva Kállay
- Babeș-Bolyai University, Psychology and Educational Sciences, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | | | - Csaba László Dégi
- Babeș-Bolyai University, Sociology and Social Work, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Auer R, Meszaros C, Fossouo L, Vandermeer L, Stein BD. A Survey Detailing Early Onset Colorectal Cancer Patient and Caregiver Experiences in Canada. Curr Oncol 2024; 31:3149-3160. [PMID: 38920722 PMCID: PMC11203371 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol31060238] [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: 04/06/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The incidence of early onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) in Canada has increased. To address the growing incidence of EOCRC, Colorectal Cancer Canada (CCC) developed the Never Too Young (N2Y) program to identify gaps in care and evaluate patient and caregiver experiences with CRC. The survey was available online using SurveyMonkey across Canada between 12 December 2022 and 1 May 2023. The patient and caregiver survey consisted of 113 and 94 questions, respectively. A total of 108 EOCRC patients and 20 caregivers completed the survey. Many respondents were unaware of EOCRC (41.6%) and the disease symptoms (45.2%) before diagnosis. Patient age at diagnosis was between 45 and 50 years in 31.7%, and 72.8% of them were diagnosed at stage III or IV. A perception of an initial misdiagnosis was common (67.4%) for EOCRC patients, and 51.2% felt dismissed due to their age. Patients and caregivers reported impacts of EOCRC on their mental health, with 70.9% of patients expressing a need for support with depression and 93.3% of caregivers experiencing a constant fear of recurrence of their loved one's cancer. Improving the Canadian population's awareness of EOCRC (e.g., CRC symptoms) is important for ensuring timely diagnoses. Similarly, it is critical to ensure that healthcare providers are aware of the increase in EOCRC cases and the unique needs of these patients. Re-evaluation of the CRC screening age should be undertaken in Canada to determine whether lowering the start age to 45 years will improve outcomes in this demographic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Auer
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4E9, Canada; (R.A.); (L.V.)
- Department of Surgery, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada
| | - Claudia Meszaros
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1G1, Canada;
| | | | - Lisa Vandermeer
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4E9, Canada; (R.A.); (L.V.)
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Feier CVI, Paunescu IA, Faur AM, Cozma GV, Blidari AR, Muntean C. Sexual Functioning and Impact on Quality of Life in Patients with Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer: A Systematic Review. Diseases 2024; 12:66. [PMID: 38667524 PMCID: PMC11049269 DOI: 10.3390/diseases12040066] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This systematic review investigates the intersection of early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC), sexual functioning, and associated quality of life (QoL), aiming to understand the comprehensive impact of EOCRC on these critical dimensions. Through an extensive search across PubMed, Scopus, and Embase up until November 2023, this study synthesized evidence from the literature while adhering to PRISMA guidelines. The studies included EOCRC patients under 50 years, which examined sexual functioning and QoL using validated instruments, and were published in English. After a rigorous screening process, five relevant studies were identified from an initial pool of 2184 articles. This review includes data from five studies involving 2031 EOCRC patients. The key findings revealed a high prevalence of sexual dysfunction, with up to 50% of men experiencing impotence and 58% reporting sexual dysfunction, alongside 36% of women in some studies. Pain was described by 12% to 31% of patients. Anxiety and depression were notably prevalent, affecting up to 69% of participants. EOCRC profoundly impacts sexual functioning and QoL, with a significant prevalence of sexual dysfunction and psychological distress among affected individuals. These findings suggest the need for oncological management strategies that include not only medical treatment but also psychological support and sexual health interventions. This systematic review emphasizes the importance of holistic patient care approaches, advocating for further research and clinical attention to address the complex needs of younger EOCRC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catalin Vladut Ionut Feier
- First Discipline of Surgery, Department X-Surgery, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- First Surgery Clinic, “Pius Brinzeu” Clinical Emergency Hospital, 300723 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ionut Andrei Paunescu
- Department of Urology, “Pius Brinzeu” Clinical Emergency County Hospital, 300736 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Alaviana Monique Faur
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Gabriel Veniamin Cozma
- Department of Surgical Semiology, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timişoara, Romania;
- Research Center of Thoracic Surgery, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Andiana Roxana Blidari
- Oncology, Department IX-Surgery, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Calin Muntean
- Medical Informatics and Biostatistics, Department III-Functional Sciences, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ma'rifah AR, Afiyanti Y, Djatmiko W, Ruwaida I, Milanti A. Gender role conflicts experienced by Indonesian women with gynecological cancer: A phenomenological study. BELITUNG NURSING JOURNAL 2024; 10:78-86. [PMID: 38425683 PMCID: PMC10900052 DOI: 10.33546/bnj.3064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Gynecological cancer and its treatments can lead to sexual problems, potentially disrupting the gender role performance of women. Sexuality and gender roles are context-specific, yet these issues remain unexplored in the Indonesian context. Objective This study aimed to explore the gender role conflicts experienced by Indonesian women having gynecological cancer. Method A qualitative design with a phenomenology approach was utilized in this study. Data were collected through individualized, face-to-face, in-depth interviews conducted from 1 April to 30 December 2022 with 22 women diagnosed with gynecological cancer who had undergone treatments at the Dharmais Cancer Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results Three themes were developed: 1) challenges in fulfilling female gender roles after having cancer diagnosis and therapies, 2) emotional struggles related to gender role conflicts, and 3) efforts to cope with gender role conflicts. Conclusion The study sheds light on how sexual complications due to gynecological cancer and its treatments extend beyond physical issues. A deeper layer of problems around sexual dysfunctions among gynecological cancer survivors is often rooted in traditional gender-role expectations. Nurses should have a comprehensive and contextual understanding of the unique experiences of women living with gynecological cancer to facilitate a positive adaptation to their cancer journey.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Atun Raudotul Ma'rifah
- Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Indonesia, 16424 Depok, Indonesia
- Faculty of Health, Harapan Bangsa University, Purwokerto, Indonesia
| | - Yati Afiyanti
- Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Indonesia, 16424 Depok, Indonesia
| | - Wisnu Djatmiko
- Faculty of Computer Science, Universitas Indonesia, 16424 Depok, Indonesia
| | - Ida Ruwaida
- Faculty of Social and Political Science, Universitas Indonesia, 16424 Depok, Indonesia
| | - Ariesta Milanti
- Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Binawan University, 13630 Jakarta, Indonesia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Conti I, Davidson M, Cutress RI, McIntosh SA, Head MG. Global trends in psycho-oncology research investments 2016-2020: A content analysis. Psychooncology 2024; 33:e6273. [PMID: 38141045 DOI: 10.1002/pon.6273] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE An estimated one-third of cancer patients experience a clinically significant psychological disorder, however it is unclear to what extent this is reflected in research funding. To address this a systematic analysis the allocation of psycho-oncology research funding globally between 2016 and 2020 was conducted. METHODS A global dataset of 66,388 cancer research awards, from 2016 to 2020 inclusive and totalling $24.5 billion USD was assembled from public and philanthropic funders. Each award was previously categorised by cancer site type and research theme, including psychosocial research and these awards were further sub-categorised for this analysis. RESULTS There was $523m of funding awarded for psychological research across 1122 studies: 2.14% of all cancer research funding during this period ($24.5 billion). Median funding per award was $97,473 (IQR $36,864 - $453,051). Within psychological research, mental health received most funding ($174m, 33.5% of psychological funding). Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) focused research was the specific psychological support with the highest proportion of funding at $14 million. By country of funder, the USA provided most investment ($375.5 m, 71.8%). CONCLUSIONS Psycho-oncology research received relatively little funding, for example, when compared with pre-clinical cancer research. There needs to be a shift from pre-clinical science to research that benefits cancer patients in the shorter-term. Low- and middle-income countries, and ethnic minorities in higher-income settings, were underrepresented despite having a large cancer burden, indicating inequities that need to be addressed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mitchell Davidson
- Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Ramsey I Cutress
- University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
- Cancer Sciences Academic Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Stuart A McIntosh
- Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Michael G Head
- Clinical Informatics Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Duenas-Lopez M, Morgan O, Marshall DC, Carney L, Caban-Martinez A, Huang M, Portelance L, Schnur J. Cuban American Perspectives on Sexual Dysfunction Following Pelvic Radiotherapy: A Qualitative Study. SEXUALITY AND DISABILITY 2023; 41:757-768. [PMID: 38948491 PMCID: PMC11213550 DOI: 10.1007/s11195-023-09812-z] [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] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Participation in sexual medicine research may depend on a patient's willingness to speak openly about sex, sexual function, or other sensitive topics. These topics may be difficult or uncomfortable to talk about, and this discomfort may be further amplified when a patient comes from a cultural background that stigmatizes open conversation about sex and sexuality. We used qualitative analysis to better understand the intersection between cultural identity, the experience of sexual dysfunction as a side-effect of pelvic radiotherapy, and willingness to communicate about sexual dysfunction with healthcare providers, in Cuban American women in Miami, Florida. Doing so, we found four unique themes among Cuban American participants regarding the intersection of national identity, Hispanic identity, Catholic religion, and their experience of radiotherapy-related sexual dysfunction: Marianismo, Machismo, Familismo, and Espiritismo. These themes, a reflection of the cohort's shared identity, were found to have an effect on participant views of sexual health, romantic relationships, coping strategies, and relative comfort discussing problems with intercourse. These cultural values served as barriers to openly discussing sexual dysfunction with not just medical providers and research teams but also their partners, families, and friends. In order to encourage Cuban American participation in sexual medicine studies, future research should evaluate strategies to overcome these barriers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Orly Morgan
- Department of Public Health Science, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1600 NW 10Th Ave #1140, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, United States
| | - Deborah C. Marshall
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Blavatnik Family Women’s Health Research Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lauren Carney
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Marilyn Huang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, USA
| | - Lorraine Portelance
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1600 NW 10Th Ave #1140, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, United States
| | - Julie Schnur
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Bergerot CD, Wang AWT, Csaba DL, Bahcivan O, Kim Y. Cancer Patients' Unmet Needs in Three Low- to Middle- Income Countries: Perspectives from Health Care Providers. Cancer Invest 2023; 41:1-8. [PMID: 36621937 PMCID: PMC10349901 DOI: 10.1080/07357907.2023.2167210] [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: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
We sought to determine differences by low- and middle- income countries (Brazil, Romania, and Turkiye) on the degree to which health care providers (HCPs) note unmet needs among patients with cancer (N = 741). HCPs endorsed sexuality/intimacy and financial concerns as the most common. Investigating age differences in unmet needs between Brazil and Turkiye, were that should be targeted by. Results revealed that unmet needs to manage emotional distress were higher among older patients in Turkiye, whereas unmet needs to manage insomnia/fatigue were higher among pediatric patients in Brazil. Findings may guide the development of programs to address unmet needs among patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dégi L. Csaba
- Faculty of Sociology and Social Work, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ozan Bahcivan
- Psiko-Onkologlar Dernegi (Turkish Psycho-Oncological Association), Izmir, Turkiye
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Partnership, sexuality, and fertility-related communication: findings from a register-based study among long-term hematological cancer survivors. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:26. [PMID: 36513784 PMCID: PMC9747843 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-07495-4] [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: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Even though the number of hematological cancer survivors suffering from long-term and late consequences of their disease is growing, knowledge about their situation regarding partnership, sexuality, and fertility-related communication is sparse to date. METHODS We recruited survivors of hematological malignancies (≥ 3 years after diagnosis) from two cancer registries in Germany. We applied validated instruments and study-specific items on satisfaction with partnership, sexual functioning, and fertility-related communication with physicians. We provided descriptive statistics and conducted multiple regression analyses to identify associations of the outcomes with patient factors and well-being (anxiety, depression, and quality of life). RESULTS Of 2001 eligible survivors, 922 (46%) participated. Fifty-seven percent were male, and the mean age was 64 years. Ninety percent and 60% reported to be satisfied with their partnership and sexual life, respectively. However, 81% and 86% reported being sexually impaired by physical or mental symptoms, respectively. Seventy-four percent of those with incomplete family planning had a fertility-related conversation with a physician. Female gender (p < .05, Beta = - .09), older age (p < .01, Beta = .10), and chemotherapy (p < .01, Beta = .10) were associated with less sexual pleasure caused by physical impairment. Satisfaction with partnership (p < .001, Beta = .22), satisfaction with sexual life (p < .001, Beta = .28), and conversation about fertility (p < .05, Beta = .26) were associated with better quality of life. CONCLUSION Even though long-term survivors seem to be generally satisfied with their partnership and sexual life, they may suffer from specific impairments. Our findings need to be verified in longitudinal studies.
Collapse
|