Chemotherapy Induced Alopecia Distress, Body Image and Psychosocial Wellbeing among Breast Cancer Patients: The Moderating Role of Locus of Control

Abstract

To explore the relationship of chemotherapy induced distress with body image and psychological wellbeing, this study was proposed considering locus of control as a moderating variable among breast cancer patients. This study was a cross-sectional research. A convenient Sample of 80 breast cancer patients were selected from different hospitals of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Chemotherapy Induced Alopecia Distress Scale (CADS), Body Image Scale (BR23), Psychosocial Well-being Scale (EORTC QLQ C30), and Health Locus of Control Scale (HLCS) were used to find the relationship between study variables. The study found a significant association between chemotherapy-induced alopecia, body image, and psychosocial well-being in breast cancer patients. The moderating role of Locus of Control was found to be insignificant between chemotherapy induced alopecia distress, body image, and psychosocial well-being. The results of present research study highlighted the negative effect of hair loss on dissatisfaction of body image and wellbeing of psychological and social factors, emphasizing the need for comprehensive psychosocial support for these patients. The study also underscores the importance of considering individuals' locus of control when designing interventions to mitigate the psychosocial effects of hair loss.