Sexual Dysfunction Following Cancer Treatment Affects Millions, Often Unaddressed
october 19, 2025 – A significant majority of cancer patients experience sexual dysfunction as a result of their treatment, yet awareness of this common side effect remains low, leaving many to suffer in silence. New data underscores the widespread nature of the problem, impacting quality of life for survivors and highlighting a critical gap in pre-treatment counseling and ongoing care.
Cancer and its therapies – including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation – can disrupt hormone levels, damage nerves, and cause physical changes that lead to difficulties with arousal, desire, orgasm, and overall sexual function. This affects both men and women, across all age groups and cancer types. While the physical toll of cancer is widely discussed, the impact on sexual health is often overlooked, leading to distress, relationship strain, and diminished well-being for survivors. experts emphasize the importance of proactive discussions between patients and their healthcare teams before treatment begins to understand potential risks and explore strategies for mitigation and management.
According to the Pan American Health Institution (PAHO), sexual and reproductive health are integral to overall health and well-being. Resources available through organizations like Europa Uomo (https://www.europa-uomo.org/who-we-are/quality-of-life-2/eu-proper/) offer support and information for men facing cancer-related sexual health challenges. Further information on sexual and reproductive health can be found at the World Health Organization (https://www.paho.org/en/topics/sexual-and-reproductive-health).
The lack of open dialog and readily available resources contributes to the underreporting of thes issues.Many patients are hesitant to discuss sexual concerns with their doctors, and healthcare providers may not routinely inquire about sexual function as part of follow-up care. This creates a cycle of silence that prevents individuals from receiving the support they need to navigate these challenges and reclaim their sexual health after cancer.
