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Body image and sexual function in women after treatment for anal and rectal cancer
Author(s) -
Benedict Catherine,
Philip Errol J.,
Baser Raymond E.,
Carter Jeanne,
Schuler Tammy A.,
Jandorf Lina,
DuHamel Katherine,
Nelson Christian
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
psycho‐oncology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.41
H-Index - 137
eISSN - 1099-1611
pISSN - 1057-9249
DOI - 10.1002/pon.3847
Subject(s) - sexual function , medicine , body mass index , quality of life (healthcare) , sexual dysfunction , demography , psychology , clinical psychology , sociology , nursing
Abstract Objective Treatment for anal and rectal cancer (ARCa) often results in side effects that directly impact sexual functioning; however, ARCa survivors are an understudied group, and factors contributing to the sexual sequelae are not well understood. Body image problems are distressing and may further exacerbate sexual difficulties, particularly for women. This preliminary study sought to (1) describe body image problems, including sociodemographic and disease/treatment correlates, and (2) examine relations between body image and sexual function. Methods For the baseline assessment of a larger study, 70 women completed the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of Life Questionnaire and Colorectal Cancer‐specific Module, including the Body Image subscale, and Female Sexual Function Index. Pearson's correlation and multiple regression evaluated correlates of body image. Among sexually active women ( n = 41), hierarchical regression examined relations between body image and sexual function domains. Results Women were on average 55 years old (standard deviation = 11.6), non‐Hispanic White (79%), married (57%), and employed (47%). The majority (86%) reported at least one body image problem. Younger age, lower global health status, and greater severity of symptoms related to poorer body image ( p 's < 0.05). Poor body image was inversely related to all aspects of sexual function ( β range 0.50–0.70, p 's < 0.05), except pain. The strongest association was with Female Sexual Function Index Sexual/Relationship Satisfaction. Conclusion These preliminary findings suggest the importance of assessing body image as a potentially modifiable target to address sexual difficulties in this understudied group. Further longitudinal research is needed to inform the development and implementation of effective interventions to improve the sexual health and well‐being of female ARCa survivors. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.