Changes in sexual function after treatment of male cancer

Quality of life in general and sexual functioning in particular have become very important in cancer patients. Due to modern surgical techniques, improved quality of drugs for chemotherapy and very modern radiation techniques, more patients can be successfully treated without largely compromising sexual functioning. The life-threatening nature of cancer might result in the assumption that sexual activity is not important to patients and their partners, but this is not true. There have been several reports on the prevalence of different types of sexual dysfunction in men and women. An overview on the changes of sexual functioning following treatment of male cancer is presented. Cancer affects quantity and quality of life. The challenge for physicians is to address both components with compassion.