A pilot study of a sexual health workshop for oncology staff: feasibility, impact, and gaps in addressing young adult breast cancer survivorship needs

Abstract Purpose Sexual health concerns are highly prevalent and distressing among adolescent and young adult (AYA) breast cancer survivors, yet are rarely addressed in routine oncology care. Lack of provider training remains a key barrier to effective communication and support. The purpose of the study was to determine whether a brief educational workshop for oncology staff improves sexual health screening rates among AYA breast cancer survivors, and evaluate the workshop’s acceptability, feasibility, and impact on provider confidence. Methods We conducted a pilot multi-component study combining a mixed observational cohort and non-randomized interventional study. On May 20, 2024, eight breast cancer care team members—four advanced practice providers (APPs) and four registered nurse care coordinators (RNCCs)—participated in a “30-s message” communication workshop adapted from the All of Me program created by After Cancer. Medical charts of all eligible AYA breast cancer survivors aged 18–40 diagnosed within the previous 24 months were reviewed to assess changes in sexual health screening documentation before and six months post-intervention. Provider confidence, perceived importance of sexual health, and perceptions of feasibility and acceptability were evaluated via pre-, post-, and 6-month follow-up surveys. Results Twenty-two AYA breast cancer survivors were eligible for chart extraction. Prior to the intervention, 45% of patients had documented sexual health screening, with APPs responsible for nearly all documented cases. Screening rates did not increase following the workshop. Of the 12 patients not screened, 4 transferred care (33%), 5 saw an oncologist (41%), 1 saw an APP (8%), and 2 had other competing health issues occurring at the time of follow up that took priority of the visit (17%). All eight participating providers (4 APPs, 4 RNs) completed the training; 88% completed the immediate post-survey and 75% completed the six-month follow-up survey. Providers reported high acceptability and feasibility. Confidence in addressing physical symptoms was higher than managing emotional concerns (e.g., low desire). Conclusions Screening rates did not increase following the workshop, likely reflecting high baseline APP screening and limited follow-up opportunities. Future efforts should integrate role-specific education with system-level supports to broaden and sustain screening practices. Implications for Cancer Survivors Cancer survivors are often cared for by a multidisciplinary team. This study suggests that training only advanced practice providers and nurses may not be enough to improve sexual health screening. Broader education across all care team members, combined with system-wide tools and prompts, may be needed to ensure consistent and equitable survivorship care.