COPD burden on sexual well-being

Sexual function is often affected in subjects living with chronic illness especially COPD. However the effect of COPD on sexual satisfaction is underappreciated in clinical practice. The aim of this study is to evaluate the disease’s impact on patient’s sexuality and the explanatory variables of sexual dissatisfaction.On-line questionnaires were submitted on the association BPCO website and to e-mailing list. Data about sexual well-being (Arizona Sexual Experience Scale, ASEX), Quality of life (VQ11), anxiety and depression (Hospitalized anxiety and depression, HAD) and declared COPD stage were collected.Seven hundred and fifty one sibjects were included and were characterized as follows: women: 51%, mean age: 61 years, in a couple: 62%, retired: 70%. Every stage of COPD was represented. Forty percent had no sexual activity, and from the remaining, 60% needed to change their sexual life because of the disease (rhythm, frequency and position). Subjects often used medications to improve sexual performance (43% short-acting bronchodilator, 13% specific erectile dysfunction drugs). ASEX questionnaire confirmed patients’ dissatisfaction (diminution of sexual appetite for 68% and sexual desire for 60%), because of breathlessness, and fatigue. Responders had an altered quality of life (VQ11 mean score 35) and more frequent anxiety or depression (HAD mean score 10,8). Ninety percent declared that sexual dysfunction had never been evoked by doctors whereas 36% of the...
Source: European Respiratory Journal - Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Tags: Clinical problems Source Type: research