Sexual health and intimacy concerns among patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia: a cross-sectional needs...

Sexual health is an important component of survivorship, yet data specific to chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) are limited. We aimed to characterize self-reported sexual health concerns and supportive care needs among adults with CLL. In this cross-sectional anonymous survey, adults with CLL completed a structured needs assessment evaluating sexual function symptoms, changes in sexual activity, disease-related intimacy concerns, and interest in supportive services. Fifty-nine patients (53% women; mean time from diagnosis 8 years) participated. Sexual activity declined from 93% at diagnosis to 71% at survey completion (p = 0.002). Sixty-six percent reported at least one sexual function symptom, most commonly decreased desire, arousal difficulties, erectile dysfunction, and vaginal dryness. Disease-specific fears were minimal. Interest in formal counseling was limited. Sexual health concerns are common yet under-addressed in CLL. Routine clinician-initiated discussion may improve survivorship care.