Identifying Sexuality and Intimacy Needs in Patients with Multiple Myeloma: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Sexual dysfunction and intimacy concerns are common in cancer but under-assessed in hematologic malignancies, including multiple myeloma (MM). MM-specific disease burden may compound age-related sexual dysfunction, yet structured data in this population are limited.

We conducted an observational, cross-sectional, anonymous survey among adults with MM recruited from three Israeli hematology centers and the Israeli MM patient association. The Hebrew-language questionnaire assessed sexual dysfunction domains (before MM diagnosis vs. at survey completion), MM-related fears affecting intimacy (5-point Likert scale), reasons for sexual inactivity, and interest in supportive services. McNemar tests compared paired proportions; multivariable logistic regression explored associations with patient characteristics.

Fifty-three patients participated, 62% aged >60 years; 79% partnered. Among respondents classifiable by sex (n=34), most sexual dysfunction domains showed numerical increases from before diagnosis to survey completion. Two domains reached nominal statistical significance: low/no desire in women (21% to 71%; p=0.016) and erectile dysfunction in men (16% to 53%; p=0.016). The most common reasons for sexual inactivity were decreased desire, absence of a partner, and erectile dysfunction. Interest in supportive services was substantial: complementary medicine (27/53), hematologist consultation regarding sexual health (21/53), and sexual counseling (21/53) were most frequently endorsed. MM-related fears affecting intimacy were common, mostly of neuropathy (36%), weakness/fatigue (34%), and bone pain (32%).

Sexual dysfunction and intimacy concerns are prevalent in MM and may worsen over the disease course. MM-specific fears are frequently endorsed and represent potentially addressable barriers to intimacy. Patients express clear interest in supportive services. Routine sexual health assessment and multidisciplinary supportive care should be integrated into MM clinical practice.