Sexual Dysfunction Among Women With Breast Cancer in the Northeastern Part of West Malaysia

INTRODUCTION: Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a common complication among breast cancer patients following treatment.

AIM: To assess the prevalence and factors associated with FSD among breast cancer patients in Kelantan.

METHODS: This cross-sectional study recruited female patients, aged 18-65, who were married and sexually active with their partner, diagnosed with breast cancer, and had undergone breast surgery. Those with underlying psychiatry disorders, previous pelvic surgery, and husbands with sexual problems were excluded. The questionnaire contained demographic and clinical information, together with the Malay Version of the Breast Impact of Treatment Scale and the Malay Version of Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised. Their sexual function was evaluated using the Malay Version of the Female Sexual Function Index-6. The data were analyzed with simple and multiple linear regressions.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The prevalence and associated factors for FSD in breast cancer patients.

RESULTS: Ninety-four eligible patients were recruited for this study. In total, 73.4% (n = 69) of the patients reported having sexual dysfunction. A family history of breast cancer (P = 0.040), duration of marriage (P = 0.046), and frequency of sexual intercourse (P = 0.002) were significant factors associated with FSD in breast cancer patients after surgery.

CONCLUSION: The significant associated factors shown to influence the FSD score include family history of breast cancer, duration of marriage, and frequency of sexual intercourse. About 73.4% of patients have risk of developing FSD after receiving breast cancer treatment. Siang OP, Draman N, Muhamad R, et al. Sexual Dysfunction Among Women With Breast Cancer in the Northeastern Part of West Malaysia. Sex Med 2021;9:100351.