Scales for Assessing Male Sexual Function are not Entirely Applicable to Gay and Bisexual Men with Prostate Cancer

Abstract

Scales designed for assessing male sexual function may not be suitable for men of all sexual orientations. We reviewed frequently used sexual function scales and examined the item content and documentation of validation. These scales predominantly focus on general sexual function and erection. They lack questions on behaviors relevant to men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM), such as anal sex, masturbation, or sexual activities outside of committed relationships. Additionally, the validation samples rarely mention inclusion of MSM, revealing a clear gap in the clinical evaluation tools available for MSM, who are experiencing sexual dysfunction from prostate cancer treatment side effects.

Keywords: Bisexual; Gay; MSM; Prostate cancer; Relationship; Scale; Sexual dysfunction.