Sexual Health in the Era of Cancer Genetic Testing: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction: Genetic testing for germline cancer mutations allows individuals to gain specific knowledge of their hereditary cancer risks. Although risk-reducing strategies such as increased screening, prophylactic surgeries, and chemoprevention may be potentially lifesaving, these options can also significantly impact sexual health and function.

Aim: This study overviews current challenges at the intersection of cancer genetic testing and sexual health and describes a systematic review that summarizes this evidence, identifies methodological limitations, and provides future research directions.

Methods: Articles on the intersection of genetic testing and/or family history of cancer, cancer risk, and sexual health were searched in Medline, PsycINFO, and PsycARTICLES databases.

Main outcome measure: The main outcome measure was sexual health in women who pursued risk-reducing surgery.

Results: On the basis of the inclusion criteria, 32 studies were reviewed. 31 contained empiric data from 3,367 participants; one was a conceptual study. All studies were published between 2000 and 2019. Mean ages ranged from 38 to 51.2.

Conclusion: Given the prevalence of sexual dysfunction after risk-reducing surgery, evidence-based interventions are needed. Furthermore, quality of life that includes sexual health, in at-risk women who pursue preventive surgery, remains an understudied aspect of cancer genetic testing. Yusufov M, Bober SL. Sexual Health in the Era of Cancer Genetic Testing: A Systematic Review. Sex Med Rev 2020;8:231-241.

Keywords: Cancer; Cancer risk; Genetic testing; Sexual health.