Impact of Testicular Cancer on Socio- Economic Health, Sexual Health and Fertility of Survivors – A Questionnaire based Survey

Purpose Testicular cancer (TC) is diagnosed at a young age and carries a remarkably high cure rate even with advanced stage at diagnosis. Hence, there is a sizeable population living in the survivorship phase. Many studies have highlighted the plight of TC survivors as a result of late side effects of different therapeutic modalities used for treatment of TC. Although, a number of co-morbidities are known to cause chronic diseases and mortality in TC survivors, in this study we focus on the impact of TC on socio-economic health, sexual health and fertility. Methods We performed a questionnaire based survey on TC survivors in one of the cancer centres of Ireland. Questionnaires were designed to measure the impact on social, sexual and economic health on a five point Likert scale. Any effect on the fertility was investigated with questions regarding biological children before and after cancer with or without medical assistance. Results A total of 83 TC survivors participated in the study. Of all participants, 17% reported issues with fertility and the same proportion reported seeking medical help to conceive. The percentage of survivors who experienced fertility issues persisting for more than 1 year was 14%. Almost half of our respondents revealed some effect on their performance at work and personal finances. Around one third, had an impact on career choice, job security and relationship with their partner. Regarding sexual health, worst repercussions were noted on the sex drive and body image perception, where close to half of the respondents reported at least some deterioration. Ejaculation and erectile function was affected in 30% of the participants. Conclusions High cure rates in TC are coupled with long term side effects, consequently affecting the socio-economic and sexual health of survivors. A comprehensive and holistic survivorship program is needed to improve the quality of life and health of TC survivors.