Background: The aim of this study was to analyze the associations between sexuality, quality of life, treatment discontinuation, and survival in recurrent ovarian cancer (OC).
Methods: Raw data from various phase II/III studies, including the questionnaires EORTC-QLQ-C30 and QLQ-OV28, were included. Data from the meta-analysis were calculated using logistic and Cox regression.
Results: Data on sexuality were available for 644 patients. A total of 162 patients had an interest in sex and were sexually active (Group A). A total of 45 patients had an interest in sex and were sexually not active (Group I) and 437 patients had no interest in sex and were not sexually active (Group N). Group A was younger in median age (age at randomization), at 57 years, than Group I, at 60 years, and Group N, at 65 years (p < 0.001). Group A had a better ECOG performance status and fewer recurrences (all p < 0.001). FIGO stage, grading, and BMI were not associated with interest in sex and sexual activity. Group A showed higher scores in role, body, and social function (all p < 0.001), emotional functionality (p < 0.002), and body image (p = 0.012). In addition, Group A reported less pain, less peripheral neuropathy, and less fatigue (all p < 0.001). There was no association with the premature discontinuation of chemotherapy. Group A showed better survival rates compared to group N (22.3 months vs. 17.4 months, p < 0.001).
Conclusions: Physicians should routinely address the topic of sexuality with ovarian cancer patients. Sexuality appears to be a marker for quality of life as well as overall survival.
Keywords: discontinuation of chemotherapy; interest in sex; ovarian cancer; quality of life; sexual activity; survival.