A Multicentre Prospective Study to Investigate the Prevalence of Sexual Dysfunction and Quality of Life in Women with Breast Cancer receiving Aromatase Inhibitors

Whilst the long-term effects of chemotherapy and hormonal therapy with tamoxifen on sexual function and quality of life of women with breast cancer has been well documented, less is known about the impact of aromatase inhibitors (AIs) on a woman’s sexual functioning. Common sexual issues raised have included vaginal dryness, painful sexual intercourse (dyspareunia) and a reduction in libido. AIs have largely replaced tamoxifen as choice of hormonal treatment in post-menopausal women and as there will an increasing number of women on AIs, it is important to document the impact of AI use on sexual functioning. The result of this study will raise the awareness of the potential effects of AI use and sexual dysfunction for both the physician and patient.