Objectives: Research on the early breast cancer survivorship period has shown that sexuality and mental health detriments are persistent and distressing. However, few studies have taken the next step by examining the relationship between sexuality and mental health-related quality of life (MHRQoL), and even fewer studies have done so using a longitudinal design
Methods: Participants were newly-diagnosed Stage II or III patients currently living with a romantic partner (Ns= 133, 92). Sexuality and MHRQoL measures were collected at three timepoints: Initial, following diagnosis and primary surgery; 12 months, the end of adjuvant therapies, 48 months, four years post-diagnosis.
Results: Hierarchical multiple regression analyses tested sexuality indicators as predictors of MHRQoL, and vice versa (MHRQoL predicting sexuality). Two sets of regressions were performed – Initial measures were used to predict 12-month outcomes, and 12-month measures were used to predict 48-month outcomes. When statistically relevant, sociodemographic, disease, and treatment variables were included. Results showed that initial sexual functioning predicted MHRQoL outcomes at 12 months.
Conclusions: This preliminary investigation suggests a relationship between initial sexual functioning and MHRQoL at 12 months, providing evidence for the utility of sexuality as a predictor of MHRQoL in breast cancer patients. Findings suggest that prevention or treatment of sexual health difficulties may foster improved psychological outcomes for survivors.