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Erschienen in:
14.12.2015
The sexual health of female rectal and anal cancer survivors: results of a pilot randomized psycho-educational intervention trial
Erschienen in: Journal of Cancer Survivorship | Ausgabe 3/2016
Einloggen, um Zugang zu erhaltenAbstract
Background
Sexual dysfunction is a frequently reported consequence of rectal/anal cancer treatment for female patients.
Purpose
The purpose of this study was to conduct a small randomized controlled trial to assess the efficacy of a telephone-based, four-session Cancer Survivorship Intervention-Sexual Health (CSI-SH).
Methods
Participants (N = 70) were stratified by chemotherapy, stoma, and menopause statuses before randomization to CSI-SH or assessment only (AO). Participants were assessed at baseline, 4 months (follow-up 1), and 8 months (follow-up 2).
Results
The intervention had medium effect sizes from baseline to follow-up 1, which decreased by follow-up 2. Effect sizes were larger among the 41 sexually active women. Unadjusted means at the follow-ups were not significantly different between the treatment arms. Adjusting for baseline scores, demographics, and medical variables, the intervention arm had significantly better emotional functioning at follow-ups 1 and 2 and less cancer-specific stress at follow-up 1 compared to the AO arm.
Conclusion
The data supported the hypothesized effects on improved sexual and psychological functioning and quality of life in CSI-SH female rectal/anal cancer survivors compared to the AO condition.
Condensed Abstract
This pilot study (N = 70) of CSI-SH supported the impact of this intervention on sexual and psychological functioning and quality of life on rectal and anal cancer survivors compared with an AO condition. However, intervention effects were stronger at follow-up 1 as compared to follow-up 2 and were stronger for sexually active women.
Implications for Cancer Survivors
Women may benefit from a brief, four-session, sexual health intervention after treatment from rectal and anal cancer.