A neglected healthcare issue on sexual well-being following breast cancer diagnosis and treatment among Chinese women

2^nd International Conference on Nursing & Healthcare

November 17-19, 2014 DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Chicago-North Shore Conference Center, USA

Cheng Lu

Accepted Abstracts: J Nurs Care

Abstract :

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers in women worldwide. Because advances in screening and treatment have led to a significant improvement in patient survival, to evaluate the psychosocial needs of cancer survivors is becoming increasingly important. Changes in sexual well-being and sexual dysfunction are common following breast cancer diagnosis and treatment in Chinese women. This has led us to focus on life quality issues, with a particular focus on sexual well-being. Our study was mixed with qualitative and quantitative designs. Twenty patients with breast cancer were recruited for in-depth interviews. The central questions covered a patient?s cancer experience and perceptions of sexual activities following breast cancer. According to the findings of the qualitative study, we performed a quantitative study using a structured questionnaire to collect data on patient?s experience and attitude to sexual well-being following breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Based on the qualitative analysis, seven main themes emerged: (1) Decrease in sexual frequency; (2) Lack of sexual interest; (3) Menopausal symptoms; (4) Body image changes; (5) Effects on marital relationship; (6) Misconceptions about sex; (7) The need for professional consultation. Our study highlights the significant changes to sexual well-being following breast cancer among Chinese women, in addition to the lack of knowledge and misconceptions of sexual activity among patients. Addressing these problems will help improve a patient?s quality of life. The findings of this study could help healthcare professionals recognize the sexual issues faced by women with breast cancer and ultimately promote a healthy life.