Research in sexual dysfunction for women with breast cancer: Statistical fulfillment or patient satisfaction?

Ever since psychological issues became a focus of attention in oncology, many studies have been conducted to quantitatively address the impaired sexual function among women diagnosed with breast cancer; however, we lack qualitative measurement of sexual dysfunction and patients’ needs. Conducting research about “sexual function in breast cancer patients” in 2009 at the Tehran Cancer Institute shaped the idea for this editorial and my belief on the necessity of qualitative research on this topic. I found that many women suffering from breast cancer faced a crisis of grief, anger, and intense fear after discussing their sexual life as part of the research process that involved gathering data through questionnaires. These women obviously needed some kind of help, such as counselling services and education around their sexual problems and intimate relations with their partner.
This paper is a call for experts to actively participate in evaluation and effective management of sexual difficulties in breast cancer survivors. This is significant because this population is increasing in numbers. The readership of this journal, who are mostly healthcare experts in the field of cancer, should find it very interesting.