How cancer affects sexual functioning

Significant sexual morbidity occurs in the majority of cancer patients. In the assessment of sexual functioning, the health-care provider needs to survey sexual behavior, sexual desire, excitement, orgasm, and resolution (i.e., the sexual response cycle), and the occurrence of sexual dysfunction(s). Data are available documenting sexual disruption for the major sites of disease, including breast, colorectal, bladder, and the genitals, as well as for those with Hodgkin's disease. The author includes a brief model (ALARM) to assist the health professional in assessing sexual functioning in cancer patients.