Effectiveness trial of an online self-help intervention for sexual problems after cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Sexual Medicine
• Digital Health

Background:

• Sexual dysfunction is prevalent among cancer survivors, impacting quality of life.
• Existing internet interventions often require significant clinician support, limiting scalability.
• Unguided digital interventions face challenges with patient engagement and high attrition rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate an online, self-help intervention for improving sexual function in cancer survivors.
• To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of a scalable digital solution for post-cancer sexual health.

Main Methods:

• A pragmatic trial was conducted to assess an online, self-help sexual function intervention.
• Focus was placed on female participants who completed 3-month follow-up questionnaires (N=60).
• Statistical analysis examined changes in sexual activity, function, and use of sexual aids.

Main Results:

• A significant increase in sexually active individuals was observed at follow-up (p < 0.001, Effect size = 0.54).
• Participants reported improved sexual function (p < 0.001, Effect size = -0.76, N=41).
• There was a notable increase in the use of sexual aids (p = 0.01, Effect size = -0.14, N=58).

Conclusions:

• The online self-help intervention demonstrated positive effects on sexual activity and function in a subset of cancer survivors.
• High attrition rates highlight the need for improved patient engagement strategies in digital health interventions.
• The intervention has been revised to enhance user engagement and potentially improve adherence and outcomes.