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Gaither TW, Shahrvini T, Vincent NW, Russell MM, Litwin MS. Anorectal Sexual Function Index: Development and Validation of a Health-related Quality of Life Measure. Urology 2024:S0090-4295(24)00334-0. [PMID: 38710453 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2024.04.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the reliability and validity of measuring receptive anal intercourse (RAI) sensation and associated satisfaction and bother. METHODS Between July 2022 and January 2023, we conducted a survey on sensations during RAI among people with prostates (ie, cisgender men and transgender women). The survey content was developed based on our previous qualitative study. We assessed internal reliability and consistency through time. Sensations experienced during RAI were correlated with health-related quality-of-life measures to ensure construct validity. RESULTS The final index contained four scales: pleasure (four items), pain (seven items), urinary (four items), and bowel (four items). Overall, 1084 individuals filled out the questionnaire. The internal consistency for all subscales was at or above 0.79. Scores tended to be stable across time with all test-retest coefficients at or above 0.72. Pleasure scores were inversely correlated with pain scores (r = -0.46). Pleasure was positively correlated with erections (r = 0.36) and orgasms (r = 0.44) during RAI, and sexual satisfaction (r = 0.39). Notable positive correlations for pain scores were with bowel scores (r = 0.49), internalized homophobia (r = 0.35), and prostatitis symptoms (r = 0.37). Urinary scores were moderately associated with IPSS scores (r = 0.22). Bowel scores were positively correlated with GI symptoms (r = 0.24), mental health symptoms (r = 0.28), and chronic prostatitis symptoms (r = 0.29). CONCLUSION The results of the current study provide evidence that the Anorectal Sexual Function Index is both reliable and valid. The Anorectal Sexual Function Index may be a particularly useful health-related quality-of-life measure to assess outcomes regarding a host of urologic issues that may affect RAI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas W Gaither
- Department of Urology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA.
| | - Tara Shahrvini
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | | | - Marcia M Russell
- Department of Surgery, Section of Colorectal Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA; Surgical and Perioperative Careline, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Mark S Litwin
- Department of Urology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA; Department of Health Policy and Management, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA; School of Nursing, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
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2
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Eidelberg A, Axelrad J, Chedid V, Ballou S, Cheifetz A, Rabinowitz LG. Sexual Health in Sexual and Gender Minority Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Dig Dis Sci 2024; 69:743-748. [PMID: 38267727 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-023-08253-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, legislation targeting the sexual and gender minority (SGM) community has been passed at an increasingly alarming rate, affecting access to safe and effective gender-affirming care and forcing many SGM patients, including those with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), to withhold their identities and health concerns. Additionally, SGM patients with IBD may have unique health considerations that have not yet been well-studied OBJECTIVE: This article aims to explore the intersection of IBD and sexual health in patients who identify as SGM and to identify limitations for gastroenterologists in caring for SGM patients. The article also aims to provide suggestions for improvement in SGM-competent care within gastroenterology METHODS: A thorough literature review was conducted regarding sexual health and the SGM community with IBD. This included a review of surgical considerations in SGM patients, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and prevention, and sexual dysfunction RESULTS: Overall, little is known about the impact of IBD on patients who identify as sexual and gender minorities. Surgery, medications, and STIs continue to be a concern in the SGM community with IBD and these areas represent opportunities to improve SGM-competent IBD care. Additionally, implementation of an SGM-focused curriculum is urgently needed in medical education to improve provider knowledge and care for this unique group of patients CONCLUSIONS: Patients with IBD who identify as SGM experience challenges that are not well described in prior literature. More research is needed and is actively being pursued to guide provider awareness and improve sexual health for this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Eidelberg
- Department of Medicine and Division of Gastroenterology, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Avenue, Rabb 4, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
| | | | | | - Sarah Ballou
- Department of Medicine and Division of Gastroenterology, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Avenue, Rabb 4, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Adam Cheifetz
- Department of Medicine and Division of Gastroenterology, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Avenue, Rabb 4, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Loren G Rabinowitz
- Department of Medicine and Division of Gastroenterology, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Avenue, Rabb 4, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
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3
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Panken E, Frydenlund N, Mistry N, Prabhu R, Wong J, Kundu S, Victorson D, Amarasekera C. Heteronormative biases and distinctive experiences with prostate cancer among men who have sex with men: a qualitative focus group study. BMC Urol 2024; 24:10. [PMID: 38184578 PMCID: PMC10771696 DOI: 10.1186/s12894-023-01398-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Men who have sex with men (MSM) face many challenges and biases in healthcare. Within urology there is a need to better understand how prostate cancer impacts MSM given the unique ways in which side effects that accompany treatment may affect this population. The goal of this study is to explore the experience of MSM with prostate cancer to advance the existing literature in this area and inform implementation and delivery of clinical practice and policy guidelines. METHODS Four focus groups were conducted with a semi-structured interview guide. Using a phenomenological qualitative approach consistent with grounded theory [1] and naturalistic inquiry principles we sought to better understand the direct experiences of MSM with prostate cancer. Audio transcriptions were thematically analyzed to identify themes that impact MSM throughout their prostate cancer journey. An iterative, team-wide classification process was used to identify, organize, and group common codes into higher-order categories and themes. RESULTS Patient's choice of provider and their interactions with the healthcare system were strongly impacted by their sexual identities. Participants commented on navigating the heteronormative healthcare environment and the impact of assumptions they encountered. MSM experienced the sexual side effects of prostate cancer treatment in unique ways. Issues with erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory dysfunction had significant impacts on patient's sexual experience, with some describing being forced to explore new modes of sexual expression. Anejaculation was a theme that was distressing for many participants. The emotional impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis was significant in the men interviewed. Common themes included loss of identity and fear for future relationships. CONCLUSIONS MSM have unique concerns after prostate cancer treatment that differ from men who don't identify as MSM. It is critical that providers familiarize themselves with the concerns of this patient population regarding prostate cancer treatment. An important step toward reducing heteronormative bias in prostate cancer care is to better understand the goals, identity, and sexual practices of MSM and to provide informed anticipatory guidance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan Panken
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University, 675 N. St. Clair St, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
| | - Noah Frydenlund
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University, 675 N. St. Clair St, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Neil Mistry
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University, 675 N. St. Clair St, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Rahul Prabhu
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University, 675 N. St. Clair St, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Jeffrey Wong
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Shilajit Kundu
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University, 675 N. St. Clair St, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - David Victorson
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University, 675 N. St. Clair St, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Channa Amarasekera
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University, 675 N. St. Clair St, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
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4
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Clements MB, Walters CB, Lynch KA, Atkinson TM, Mulhall JP, Starks TJ, Vickers AJ, Carlsson SV. Patient-Reported Outcome Measures for Male Sexual Function Do Not Meet the Needs of Sexual Minority Men. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023; 52:3193-3200. [PMID: 37740113 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02688-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew B Clements
- Department of Urology, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, Burlington, MA, USA
| | - Chasity B Walters
- Department of Patient and Caregiver Engagement, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kathleen A Lynch
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Thomas M Atkinson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - John P Mulhall
- Sexual and Reproductive Medicine Program (Urology Service), Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Surgery (Urology Service), Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 353 East 68th Street, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Tyrel J Starks
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andrew J Vickers
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sigrid V Carlsson
- Department of Surgery (Urology Service), Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 353 East 68th Street, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Urology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden.
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5
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Xu AJ, Panken EJ, Gonzales-Alabastro CD, Zhang H, Helenowski IB, Murphy AB, Prabhu R, Amarasekera C. AUTHOR REPLY. Urology 2023; 179:78-79. [PMID: 37455201 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2023.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alex J Xu
- NYU Langone Health, Department of Urology, NY.
| | - Evan J Panken
- Northwestern Medicine, Department of Urology, Chicago, IL
| | | | - Hui Zhang
- Northwestern Medicine, Preventative Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | | | - Adam B Murphy
- Northwestern Medicine, Department of Urology, Chicago, IL; Northwestern Medicine, Preventative Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Rahul Prabhu
- Northwestern Medicine, Department of Urology, Chicago, IL
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6
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Dickstein DR, Edwards CR, Lehrer EJ, Tarras ES, Gallitto M, Sfakianos J, Galsky MD, Stock R, Safer JD, Rosser BRS, Marshall DC. Sexual health and treatment-related sexual dysfunction in sexual and gender minorities with prostate cancer. Nat Rev Urol 2023; 20:332-355. [PMID: 37217695 PMCID: PMC10389287 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-023-00778-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Prostate cancer treatment has substantial effects on sexual health and function. Sexual function is a vital aspect of human health and a critical component of cancer survivorship, and understanding the potential effects of different treatment modalities on sexual health is crucial. Existing research has extensively described the effects of treatment on male erectile tissues necessary for heterosexual intercourse; however, evidence regarding their effects on sexual health and function in sexual and gender minority populations is minimal. These groups include sexual minority - gay and bisexual - men, and transgender women or trans feminine people in general. Such unique effects in these groups might include altered sexual function in relation to receptive anal and neovaginal intercourse and changes to patients' role-in-sex. Sexual dysfunctions following prostate cancer treatment affecting quality of life in sexual minority men include climacturia, anejaculation, decreased penile length, erectile dysfunction, and problematic receptive anal intercourse, including anodyspareunia and altered pleasurable sensation. Notably, clinical trials investigating sexual outcomes after prostate cancer treatment do not collect sexual orientation and gender identity demographic data or outcomes specific to members of these populations, which perpetuates the uncertainty regarding optimal management. Providing clinicians with a solid evidence base is essential to communicate recommendations and tailor interventions for sexual and gender minority patients with prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R Dickstein
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Collin R Edwards
- Department of Radiology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eric J Lehrer
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elizabeth S Tarras
- Department of Pulmonology, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Matthew Gallitto
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - John Sfakianos
- Department of Urology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Matthew D Galsky
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Richard Stock
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joshua D Safer
- Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - B R Simon Rosser
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health at University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Deborah C Marshall
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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7
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Newman KL, Chedid VG, Boden EK. A Systematic Review of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Epidemiology and Health Outcomes in Sexual and Gender Minority Individuals. Gastroenterology 2023; 164:866-871. [PMID: 37087155 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2022.11.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 04/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elisa K Boden
- Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
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8
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Newman KL, Chedid VG, Boden EK. A Systematic Review of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Epidemiology and Health Outcomes in Sexual and Gender Minority Individuals. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 21:1127-1133. [PMID: 37088515 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2023.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elisa K Boden
- Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
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9
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Mitchell E, Ziegler E. Sexual Dysfunction in Gay and Bisexual Prostate Cancer Survivors: A Concept Analysis. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2022; 69:1119-1139. [PMID: 33818298 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2021.1905384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Sexual dysfunction is a common side effect of prostate cancer (PCa) treatment, yet it remains poorly defined in the literature. Current definitions are based on heteronormative assumptions which do not consider the unique experiences of gay and bisexual (GBM) PCa survivors. The purpose of this paper is to use Walker and Avant's method to conduct a concept analysis of sexual dysfunction among GBM in the context of PCa survivorship. The review included 46 articles published between 2002-2019. The following attributes were identified: (1) erectile dysfunction, (2) ejaculatory change (anhedonia/anejaculation), (3) urinary incontinence/climacturia, and (4) anodyspareunia. For GBM PCa survivors, sexual dysfunction involves reduced or abnormal functioning of four core elements of a sexual encounter, which inhibit GBM from engaging in and being satisfied with sexual activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan Mitchell
- Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing, Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Erin Ziegler
- Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing, Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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10
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Development of a Sexual Quality of Life Questionnaire for Men-Who-Have-Sex-With-Men With Prostate Cancer. Sex Med 2022; 10:100480. [PMID: 35149341 PMCID: PMC9023244 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
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11
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Sineath RC, Blasdel G, Dy GW. Addressing urologic health disparities in sexual and gender minority communities through patient-centered outcomes research. Urology 2021; 166:66-75. [PMID: 34774931 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2021.08.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Sexual and gender minority (SGM) communities face stigma and discrimination that impact all aspects of health. To better understand and improve their urologic health outcomes, we must study SGM patients as a distinct population and pursue research on outcomes identified as priorities to SGM communities. Patient-centered outcomes research (PCOR) is a methodology which is increasingly familiar to urologists and is crucial to adequately addressing SGM health in future urological research. We review existing literature focused on urologic outcomes of SGM populations and highlight specific PCOR initiatives built on SGM community engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Craig Sineath
- Department of Urology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon.
| | - Gaines Blasdel
- Department of Urology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Geolani W Dy
- Department of Urology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
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12
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Rosser BRS, Rider GN, Kapoor A, Talley KMC, Haggart R, Kohli N, Konety BR, Mitteldorf D, Polter EJ, Ross MW, West W, Wheldon C, Wright M. Every urologist and oncologist should know about treating sexual and gender minority prostate cancer patients: translating research findings into clinical practice. Transl Androl Urol 2021; 10:3208-3225. [PMID: 34430423 PMCID: PMC8350223 DOI: 10.21037/tau-20-1052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In 2016, the NIH designated sexual and gender minorities (SGM) a health disparity population. The next year, the American Society of Clinical Oncology highlighted the need to improve the suboptimal cancer and survivorship care received by SGM populations. There are currently no evidence-based training programs in culturally competent care of prostate cancer patients who are gay, bisexual and/or transgender. In this selective review, we summarize findings from the largest quantitative studies focused on sexual minority prostate cancer survivors and from 65 interviews with NIH staff, clinicians, and cancer clinics in 11 US cities. The report is divided into three parts and uses a question and answer format to address 21 questions relevant to clinicians providing care to SGM prostate cancer patients. First, we identify population-specific issues that are culturally relevant in the care of SGM patients with prostate cancer. While a body of research has emerged on sexual minority prostate cancer patients, the literature on gender minorities is limited to single case reports and inadequate to inform practice. This review covers definitions, population size, cultural and historical context, sexual behavior, population invisibility, sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) in the electronic medical record, disparities and evidence of discrimination in treatment provision. The second part focuses on promoting evidence-informed, patient-centered care. This includes current practices in assessing sexual orientation, management of disclosure of sexual orientation, how to address common problems sexual minority men experience post-treatment, common questions sexual minority patients have, management of urinary incontinence, HIV and STI risk during and post-treatment, and sub-groups of sexual minority patients with worse outcomes. It then identifies how male partners differ in prostate cancer support, current research on rehabilitation for sexual minority men, issues in advanced prostate cancer, and things to avoid with minority patients. Finally, we examine the cultural divide between provider and patient, advocating for cultural humility when working with minority patients. Training programs and continuing education can help providers both to become more aware of their own cultural assumptions, informed about health disparities, and able to provide quality care, and to make clinics more welcoming to SGM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- B. R. Simon Rosser
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - G. Nic Rider
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Aditya Kapoor
- Department of Radiology, Trinity Teleradiology Services, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kristine M. C. Talley
- Adult and Gerontological Health, University of Minnesota School of Nursing School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Ryan Haggart
- Department of Urology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Nidhi Kohli
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | | | | | - Elizabeth J. Polter
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Michael W. Ross
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - William West
- Department of Writing Studies, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Christopher Wheldon
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Morgan Wright
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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13
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Walker LM. Psychosocial contributors to patients' and partners' postprostate cancer sexual recovery: 10 evidence-based and practical considerations. Int J Impot Res 2020; 33:464-472. [PMID: 33204005 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-020-00369-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Sexual recovery after prostate cancer (PCa) treatment is challenging. When expectations are that erectile response will quickly return to baseline, patients can often struggle when this does not happen. Further difficulty is experienced when patients encounter physical, psychological, and relational barriers to sexual adjustment. Drawing on the psychosocial research literature and on 15 years of clinical experience counseling PCa patients about sexual recovery, this paper outlines considerations for clinical practice. Suggestions include broadening the target for successful outcomes after Pca treatment beyond erectile function to include sexual distress and other sources of sexual concern. Clinicians are urged to consider individual differences such as the larger context of the patient, including their values and preferences, their treatment goals, and their relationship situation and status, in order to promote successful sexual adaptation. When introducing treatment approaches, the role of grief and loss should be assessed, and patients should be supported to foster realistic expectations about the recovery process. Suggestions for how to introduce various sexual strategies to patients are also offered, including ways to support patients in making and sustaining behavioral changes associated with sexual intervention. Clinicians are offered suggestions to promote patients' sexual flexibility, prevent long periods of sexual inactivity, and help patients to identify various sexual motivators. Consideration of these psychological, relational, and social factors are all likely to help facilitate better sexual outcomes for PCa patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Walker
- Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada. .,Division of PsychoOncology, Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada. .,Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
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