(265) Self-Image after Breast Cancer

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Breast cancer is currently the first cancer diagnosed among women. The impact of its local treatments such as surgery and radiation and its systemic treatments such as chemotherapy, hormone-suppressant therapies and targeted therapies on women's bodies anatomically and physiologically and on their body image and body esteem are the major factors altering their sexual health and the quality of their spousal relationships. Objective We aim to evaluate the qualitative impact of breast cancer on its survivors' body-image. Methods We ran a prospective qualitative study using semi-structured interviews until saturation of findings. The patients included were women diagnosed, treated for breast cancer, and followed up in our institution. All participants were sexually active and no older than 55. The study enrolled 20 participants over a 6-month period (February 2022-July 2022). Results All participants had a history of breast surgery either lumpectomy or mastectomy (70%) with (one case) or without reconstructive surgery. All patients reported a history of radiation and chemotherapy. 60% had received hormone therapy with medically induced menopause. The majority of participants explained how their bodies had changed not only physically and anatomically on the outside but also on the inside especially in relation to the adverse effects of chemotherapy and hormone therapy. They also reported body emotional changes. This required an adaptation to their new body for them and their partners and entourage. The main themes emerging from their discourse were: physical and emotional adaptation to breast cancer per se and its local and systematic treatments, fear of others judgment and comments on their physical changes and loss or gain of self-esteem. Breast reconstruction was also an important theme it the participants verbatim. Conclusions The words and themes that characterized the participants' speeches highlighted the impact of cancer diagnosis and oncological therapies on breast cancer survivors. Being part of a psychological intervention focused on self-compassion and body acceptance helps breast cancer survivors develop a better perception and acceptance of their new bodies. Disclosure No.