IMPACT OF SEXUALITY IN PATIENTS WITH MOTOR NEURON DISEASE

ABSTRACT Background Sexuality is a relevant yet understudied aspect in patients with motor neuron diseases (MND). This study aimed to assess whether sexuality in MND patients is influenced by motor, cognitive, behavioral, or mood disturbances, and to explore whether being sexually active impacts caregiver burden. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional observational study involving 70 patients with MND and their primary caregivers from three ALS multidisciplinary units in Seville, Spain. Data were collected between October 2018 and July 2021. Functional, cognitive, behavioral, and mood assessments were conducted using ALSFRSr, ECAS, and HADS scales, respectively. Sexuality was evaluated through gender-specific questionnaires. Caregiver burden was assessed using the Zarit Burden Interview. All of these scales have their validated Spanish version. Results Among 66 patients who completed the sexuality assessment, 42.9% reported sexual activity in the previous month. Of these, 70% had no sexual dysfunction, while 26.7% had moderate and 3.3% severe dysfunction. No correlation was found between sexual activity and motor function (ALSFRSr) or caregiver burden. Sexual activity was less frequent in patients with apathy (p=0.026), depression (p=0.021), or frontotemporal dementia (p=0.013). Among sexually active patients, those with cognitive impairment—particularly memory dysfunction—had higher rates of arousal (p=0.021) and orgasm difficulties (p=0.019). No other clinical parameters were related to sexuality. Sexuality did not influence caregiver burden either. Conclusions Sexuality in MND is more associated with cognitive and mood factors than with motor disability. Addressing sexuality in clinical practice may contribute to improving quality of life, and should be integrated into the multidisciplinary care of MND patients.