Personality differences between endometrial and cervical cancer patients in relation to sexual behavior

Possible differences in personality were investigated in a sample of endometrial (n = 30) and cervical (n = 30) cancer patients and related to sexual behavior. The assessments were based on the Karolinska Scales of Personality (KSP) and semistructured interviews. The endometrial group reported both a higher age at sexual debut and a lower number of sexual partners whereas the corresponding figures for the cervical group were within the range of representative data from the general population. Strikingly, numerous significant correlations between personality characteristics and behavioral aspects appeared in the cervical group. In a discriminant analysis between the two cancer groups, verbal aggression, number of sexual partners, irritability, use of alcohol, age at sexual debut, impulsivity and social desirability appeared to be the most powerful variables. In view of the similarity of cervical cancer women in terms of personality and sexual behavior to normative data the elaboration of adequate and large-scale preventive measures aimed at young age groups is warranted.