Priorities and Preferences of Patients With Head and Neck Cancer for Discussing and Receiving Information About Sexuality and Perception of Self-Report Measures

Abstract

Background: Head and neck cancer and its treatment can cause impairment in survivors' sexuality. Previous studies show a need for education and psychological support.

Aim: To examine patients' priorities and preferences for discussing and receiving information about sexuality and to examine patient perceptions of existing self-report measures used in research.

Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional, Web-based study recruited adults with a current or previous diagnosis of head and neck cancer. Participants answered questions about their priority and preference for receiving information about sexuality and reviewed 4 self-report measures commonly used in the research of this population.

Results: More than 80% (n = 61) of participants reported that it was important to receive information about sexual issues. Participants chose "at the time of diagnosis" as the most frequent answer for preferred time to receive this information. Half of the participants (n = 35) indicated that they prefer discussing sexual issues with a health-care provider. The most frequent answer for the method of receiving information was through discussions. Participants endorsed 4 themes not addressed by self-report surveys: (i) elicitation of important information, (ii) symptom burden issues, (iii) psychological issues, and (iv) physical barriers.

Clinical implications: Providers, regardless of specialty, must attempt or facilitate discussions around these issues at various times within the treatment and recovery phases.

Strengths & limitations: Although limited by sample representation and cross-sectional design, this study addresses an important patient-centered issue that is a critical aspect of quality of life.

Conclusions: Patients prefer to discuss sexual issues in person with their health-care providers at the time of diagnosis. Participants reacted positively to the self-report measures, but they felt that important issues faced by patients with head and neck cancer were not fully addressed. Rhoten BA, Davis AJ, Baraff BN, et al. Priorities and Preferences of Patients With Head and Neck Cancer for Discussing and Receiving Information About Sexuality and Perception of Self-Report Measures. J Sex Med 2020;17:1529-1537.

Keywords: Head and Neck Neoplasms; Patient Preference; Patient-Centered Care; Self-Report; Sexual Health; Sexuality; Surveys and Questionnaires.