Body Image and Adolescent Cancer Patients: The Need for Psychosocial Support

Abstract

A cancer diagnosis in adolescence can be extremely distressing. It brings with it a number of physical changes which can have a significant impact on body image (BI). The purpose of this review was to examine the concept of BI in adolescent cancer patients (ACPs) and to discuss the role of healthcare professionals (HCPs) in providing psychosocial support. A systematic review of the literature was conducted, and 18 journal articles were included. BI was discussed under the headings: the body reality, the body ideal, the body presentation, coping strategies and social support. Cancer-related physical changes include hair loss, weight changes and scarring. Patients employ a range of coping strategies in response to these changes such as concealment, self-imposed isolation, fatalistic coping strategies and self-love. Social support is an imperative component of BI. Concepts such as a “peer shield” and “testing the waters” can be explored with ACPs by HCPs. Evidence shows that BI should be routinely addressed by HCPs beginning at diagnosis. Five levels of support provided by HCPs were discussed in the context of ACPs.