Communication and sexual function and frequency in breast cancer patients 2 years after diagnosis: results from the VICAN 2 study

Abstract

Abstract Background Breast cancer treatments may have impacts on several aspects of sexual health, including psychological, psychosexual, physiological, physical, and relational. Aim In this study we sought to assess sexual function and sexual frequency in breast cancer patients 2 years after diagnosis. Methods We selected all breast cancer participants from the the French national VIe après le CANcer 2 (VICAN 2) longitudinal study. Data sources included patient and medical questionnaires, along with medico-administrative databases. Outcomes Outcomes assessed were the dimensions of sexual function and frequency from the Relationship and Sexuality Scale and communication about sexuality with healthcare providers. Results Out of 1350 participating women, 60.2% experienced a decrease in sexual desire, 61.4% reported a lower frequency of intercourse, and 49.5% faced decreased ability to orgasm. In contrast, 64.8% had engaged in sexual intercourse in the previous 2 weeks, 89.5% were “Somewhat” to “Very much” satisfied with the frequency of intimate touching and kisses with their partner, and 81.6% expressed satisfaction with their intercourse frequency. However, a mere 15% of women discussed sexuality with the healthcare providers. Independent factors associated with increased communication about sexuality included age younger than 50 years (OR = 1.90 95% CI [1.28–2.82], P = .001), being in a partner relationship (OR = 2.53 95% CI [1.28–2.82], P = .003), monthly income above 1,500 euros (OR = 1.73 95% CI [1.15–2.60], P = .009), and absence of diabetes (OR = 6.11 95% CI [1.39–26.93], P = .017). Clinical Translation The study findings underscore the need for continuing education in oncosexology and dedicated sexual health interventions that should involve a holistic approach that takes into consideration age, treatments, relationship status, and whether the patient has diabetes. Strengths and Limitations Strengths of the study are the sample size, the national representativeness, and data reliability. However, the cross-sectional design could introduce potential recall, recency, or social desirability biases. Also, social determinants influencing sexual health, such as ethnicity or geographic locations, have not been considered in the analyses. Conclusions This study revealed that sexual disorders persist 2 years after a breast cancer diagnosis, with a noticeable communication gap regarding sexuality between patients and medical teams. These findings underscore the necessity for tailored sexual health interventions, particularly designed for women who are single, older aged, and diabetes patients.