Assessment of Sexual Dysfunction in Oncology Patients

Abstract

With improved prognoses for cancer come issues related to quality of life after treatment for the disease. One specific area that is beginning to emerge is the incidence and prevalence of sexual dysfunctions in male and female cancer patients and their partners. Although the prevalence of sexual dysfunctions is discussed, the man thrust of the article is the methodology used to assess them. The authors review the literature, offer a biopsychosocial model, and propose a test battery and interview that take approximately 1½ hours to administer. Potential problems are discussed, and applications of the method for intervention are highlighted.