Categories Intimacy & Body Image

Topic : Sexual health concerns of gay and bisexual men with prostate cancer

Most relevant for: Gay and bisexual men diagnosed with prostate cancer

Prostate cancer therapy can affect gay and bisexual men differently than heterosexual men. Many urologists do not routinely address these unique concerns. Selecting providers who understand the concerns that are unique to gay and bisexual patients and asking questions about sexual health concerns may improve these patients' healthcare experiences. (Posted 9/21/23)

Topic : Sex and intimacy after breast cancer

Most relevant for: People with breast cancer or metastatic breast cancer in sexual or intimate relationships and their partners

A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can affect relationships with romantic partners. This review highlights two studies that looked at how people with breast cancer and their partners are affected, how they cope, how best to communicate with each other and how to talk with healthcare providers about concerns related to cancer and sexuality. (Posted 8/8/23)

Study : Hair straightening products linked to small increased risk of endometrial cancer

Most relevant for: People who use hair straightening products

Many people use products to straighten their hair. Use of these products, especially frequent use, is linked to a small increase in endometrial cancer.  (Posted 4/18/23)

Este artículo está disponible en español.

Study : Male breast cancer: Patient and surgeon experiences

Most relevant for: Men with breast cancer

By surveying male breast cancer patients and the surgeons who treat them, researchers gained insight into the experiences of both groups, shedding light on an important issue for men with breast cancer. (Posted 12/22/22)

Este artículo está disponible en español.

Article : Transgender peoples' perspectives of being diagnosed with gender-associated cancer

Most relevant for: transgender people

An ABC News article provides viewpoints and data that conveys the added stress experienced by transgender and gender-nonconforming people when they are diagnosed with gender-associated cancer (e.g., ovarian or prostate cancer) that does not match their gender identity. (posted 9/13/21)

Este artículo está disponible en español.

Study : Patient outcomes and experiences of going flat

Most relevant for: Women considering mastectomy without breast reconstruction.

Some patients with early-stage breast cancer or those considering risk-reducing surgery may choose mastectomy without reconstruction. This is often referred to as “going flat.” The results of this study suggest that surgeons play a significant role in supporting a patient’s decision to go flat. (3/23/2021)

Este artículo está disponible en español.

Personal Story : Coping with chemotherapy-induced hair loss

Most relevant for: People who receive chemotherapy for cancer treatment

Ovarian cancer survivor Stephanie Hess shared her personal story about how she coped with hair loss. This XRAY review also includes treatments to reduce this common side effect of chemotherapy. (9/28/20)

Study : Healthy romantic relationships may decrease stress and inflammation for breast cancer survivors

Most relevant for: Women with breast cancer who have romantic partners

Satisfying romantic relationships may improve outcomes for women with breast cancer. In a new study, women who were more satisfied with their romantic relationships experienced less stress and lower inflammation. This study suggests that decreasing stress may be beneficial for breast cancer survivors. (7/25/20)

Study : Do hair dyes or straighteners increase breast cancer risk?

Most relevant for: Young women who use hair dye or straighteners

Many women use products to color or straighten their hair. A large U.S. study linked the use of permanent hair dye and straighteners to increased breast cancer risk, particularly among black women. This XRAY reviews the limitations of this study and highlights the need for additional research before accepting these conclusions. (1/29/20)

Study : Breast cancer implant study suggests links with illness but has serious flaws

Most relevant for: Women with or considering breast implant reconstruction

THIS INFORMATION HAS BEEN UPDATED: In October 2021, the FDA issued guidance for people with breast implants Read our latest review on this topic.  

An article in the Annals of Surgery, researchers conclude that their work supports an association between silicone breast implants and a range of conditions. This journal article was accompanied by two editorials in which experts voiced their disagreement with the way the analysis was performed and the conclusions of the authors. (2/21/19)