Sexual Function After Radiation Therapy

According to a recent article published in the January 1 issue of the International Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics, the official journal of the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO), sexual function does not continuously decline as was previously thought, but rather stabilizes after approximately two years.

In a new study, researchers studied 143 men with prostate cancer who had received EBRT – they noted their sexual function before and after treatment.  Patients were evaluated over a period of four years and were questioned about issues relating to sexual drive, erectile function, ejaculatory function and overall satisfaction. 

Following the study, researchers found that the best way to know about sexual function after treatment was to look at a man’s sexual function before treatment, as this is a strong predictor.  The only change in sexual function seems to appear within two years after treatment – but eventually stabilizes with relatively few changes after.

"Treatment-related side effects, especially sexual function, have a significant effect on a patient's quality of life and satisfaction with their overall outcome," Richard Valicenti, M.D., M.A., senior author on the study and professor and chair of radiation oncology at the University of California, Davis, School of Medicine. "The results of this study allow patients and their partners to have a fuller understanding of the long-term sexual side effects of EBRT and what they can expect after treatment, which should aid in deciding on a treatment course."

Read the abstract at Science Daily

Read the full journal article at…                                                                    
International Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics