PD-0001 Sexual Disorders in Female Patients with Colorectal Cancer

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of the present study was to examine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in newly diagnosed sexually active colorectal cancer female patients prior to treatment and identify the characteristics and correlates of dysfunction. Methods: Participants (n = 49) completed the Female Sexual Function Inventory (FSFI), menopause Symptom Scale (MSS) Medical Outcomes Study-Cohort Form (SF-36), abbreviated Dyadic Adjustment Scale (ADAS) and Dyadic Sexual Communication Scale (DCS). Results: Mean age of participants was 55 years (SD = 12.9). Thirty-six percent reported that they had been sexually active in the last month. Sexually active women were younger, had higher incomes and were more likely to be in a committed relationship (P < 0.05). Among those who were sexually active, mean FSFI score was 22.71 (SD = 7.3): 63% met criteria (total FSFI score less than 26) for sexual dysfunction. Dysfunction was more likely to occur in the domains of arousal, orgasm, pain and satisfaction but not desire of lubrication. Vasomotor symptoms and worse physical well-being were associated (P < 0.05) with dysfunction. Finally, poorer relationship quality and worse sexual communication were also associated (p values < 0.05) with dysfunction; emotional distress was not (P > 0.05). These variables accounted for 36% of the variability in pretreatment sexual dysfunction. Conclusion: Nearly two-thirds of newly diagnosed sexually active colorectal cancer female patients experience significant dysfunction at diagnosis. Factors that may participate in dysfunction include select demographic factors, physical symptoms, and relationship factors.