PURPOSE/ OBJECTIVES: To explore the sexuality and intimacy experiences facing women with breast cancer. DATA SOURCES: Published articles; OVID, PsycINFO, and Florida Atlantic University databases; Web sites; and books. DATA SYNTHESIS: Patient perceptions and knowledge of mastectomy and chemotherapy-induced menopause in regard to lifelong sexual experiences are lacking. Healthcare providers must institute much-needed education and open lines of communication. CONCLUSIONS: The physical and psychological results of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment alter human sexuality. Breast cancer's survival rate is at an all-time high, increasing the number of people who will be living with such issues on a daily basis and shifting the focus from acute care concerns to chronic disease concerns. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Healthcare providers should assess individual patients for potential issues they may face. By identifying problems, they can challenge health care to focus on the long-term problems associated with sexuality and intimacy issues facing patients.
PURPOSE/ OBJECTIVES: To explore the sexuality and intimacy experiences facing women with breast cancer. DATA SOURCES: Published articles; OVID, PsycINFO, and Florida Atlantic University databases; Web sites; and books. DATA SYNTHESIS: Patient perceptions and knowledge of mastectomy and chemotherapy-induced menopause in regard to lifelong sexual experiences are lacking. Healthcare providers must institute much-needed education and open lines of communication. CONCLUSIONS: The physical and psychological results of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment alter human sexuality. Breast cancer's survival rate is at an all-time high, increasing the number of people who will be living with such issues on a daily basis and shifting the focus from acute care concerns to chronic disease concerns. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Healthcare providers should assess individual patients for potential issues they may face. By identifying problems, they can challenge health care to focus on the long-term problems associated with sexuality and intimacy issues facing patients.
Authors: Kathryn E Flynn; Jennifer Barsky Reese; Diana D Jeffery; Amy P Abernethy; Li Lin; Rebecca A Shelby; Laura S Porter; Carrie B Dombeck; Kevin P Weinfurt Journal: Psychooncology Date: 2011-03-10 Impact factor: 3.894
Authors: Julia H Rowland; Beth E Meyerowitz; Catherine M Crespi; Beth Leedham; Katherine Desmond; Thomas R Belin; Patricia A Ganz Journal: Breast Cancer Res Treat Date: 2009-04-24 Impact factor: 4.872