Sexual unmet needs and psychosocial factors in Mexican breast cancer survivors

Abstract

Background: Identifying specific problems of sexuality and determining their priority levels during Mexican breast cancer survivorship can provide culturally sensitive information. Aim: To describe the relationship between sexual unmet needs (SUN) and psychosocial factors in Mexican breast cancer survivors. Method: 249 survivors were invited to complete a Supportive Care Needs Survey - Module Breast Cancer (SCNS-MBC). The survey was administered in a face-to-face interview. Data analysis included a ranking of SUN and a network analysis. Results: The mean age was 52 years, had been survivors for more than 1 year, had a basic level of education, and half had a partner. Patients were diagnosed in clinical stages II and III and were undergoing at least three types of cancer treatments. The most frequently reported unmet needs were fear of cancer recurrence and coping with side effects, mainly fatigue. Only 20% reported moderate SUN. Network analysis identified three communities characterised by distinct profiles across SUN, psychosocial, sociodemographic, and clinical variables. Conclusions: SUN were confirmed as moderate just in younger individuals, with a partner, and survivors who are economically dependent on their partner, and have undergone surgery and hormone therapy.