An Investigation into Body Image Concerns in Head and Neck Cancer Patients Receiving Radiation or Chemoradiation Using the Body Image Scale (BIS): A Pilot Study

Body image (BI) is complex and multifaceted term. However, BI will be defined as one’s subjective perceptions, views and thoughts regarding their appearance. BI can be altered in many ways. For head and neck (HN) cancer patients, many physical and psychosocial changes may occur throughout treatment that may impact their BI. Physical changes may include skin reactions, mucositis, xerostomia, hair loss, dysphagia, feeding tubes or tracheostomy tubes. BI can impact quality of life (QOL), daily activities, self-esteem, self-confidence and cause depressive symptoms.
Source: Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences - Category: Radiology Authors: Source Type: research