Information and counselling on sexual health in cardiac and respiratory disease: description of community dwelling patients' needs and reflections of health care professionals

BACKGROUND: Sexual health is an important aspect of overall well-being, encompassing physical, emotional, mental, and social dimensions. Despite its importance, many patients with chronic conditions, such as cardiac and respiratory diseases, experience challenges with sexual health and lack adequate information and support regarding sexual health from healthcare professionals (HCPs). Most studies on sexual health are conducted in clinical populations, but data on sexual health and information needs among community-dwelling cardiac and respiratory patients are scarce. Therefore, this study had two aims: (1) to describe and assess the experiences, needs and preferences among community dwelling patients with a cardiac and/or respiratory disease, regarding sexual health information and counselling; (2) to describe HCPs' experiences and the conditions under which they provide information and counselling on sexual health.

METHODS AND RESULTS: A cross-sectional design was used, including an online survey of patients with cardiac and respiratory diseases and focus groups with health care professionals involved in the care of patients with cardiac and respiratory disease. A total of 144 patients with cardiac and/or respiratory diseases participated in the survey, with 85% reporting that their sexual health affected their well-being. Only 7% said they received information on sexual health from healthcare providers, while 84% expressed a desire for information or counselling regarding sexual health. Ten HCPs participated in the focus group, revealing five themes related to providing sexual health information and counselling: personal biases, organizational factors, societal norms, knowledge and experience, and the need to break mutual silence. They highlighted the importance of professionalism, respect, and clear communication in addressing sexual health among patients.

CONCLUSION: This study highlights a significant gap between the sexual health needs of patients with cardiac and/or respiratory diseases and the information provided by HCPs, with most patients desiring more support. HCPs should proactively address sexual health in patients with cardiac and respiratory diseases. Overcoming barriers such as personal biases, organizational constraints, and societal norms requires respectful communication, professional training, and supportive healthcare structures.