Função sexual de mulheres com câncer de mama em hormonioterapia

Abstract

Breast cancer is a neoplasm considered as an important public health problem, and sexual function has the relevant role of helping to cope with the condition. Hormone therapy, which is indicated in the treatment, can bring harmful side effects to the sexual issue. This study aims to identify the relationship between hormone therapy and sexual function of women with breast cancer. This is a descriptive, cross-sectional and analytical study with a quantitative methodological approach. The research was conducted in a reference hospital in Mastology in the state of Ceará. The population was formed by women diagnosed with breast cancer in treatment with hormone therapy with expression of hormonal receptors through the immunohistochemical test positive for HER2. It had as inclusion criterion: to have age equal or superior to 18 years; exclusively in hormoniotherapy and without restriction of tumor staging. As exclusion criterion: previous or current history of other cancers. The data collection period was from June to July 2023, with a sample of 88 women. Three instruments were used for data collection: sociodemographic, clinical and gyno-obstetric, structured instrument and Female Sexual Function Index Scale. The data were tabulated in Microsoft Excel and exported to the JASP statistical program of the University of Amsterdam. Ethical aspects were respected as recommended by Resolution No. 466/2012, and the opinion number 6.151.392 was obtained. The study showed that hormone therapy in this study was not identified as a predictor of sexual changes in patients with breast cancer, and the presence of comorbidities was considered a predictor of sexual problems in this sample. The age obtained the mean age of 57.24, predominance of women with 1st degree or incomplete elementary school, income with an average of 1,801.44 with a per capita average of 646.84. Mostly from the white race, from home, coming from the city of Fortaleza, married and only one son. As a limitation, women were resistant to participating in the research and missed appointments. It is important that further studies expand the factors that may be associated with the subject studied.