Online interventions to address body image distress in cancer

Purpose of review Body image is a critical psychosocial issue for patients with cancer, because of the profound effects the disease and its treatment can have on appearance and bodily functioning. Adverse psychological effects of body image changes associated with cancer include debilitating levels of anxiety, social avoidance, depression, problems with intimacy and impaired sexuality, and feelings of shame/inadequacy. The construct of body image is increasingly recognized as complex and multifaceted from an embodied lens, creating more meaningful and efficacious interventions. Although there is some evidence now for in-person interventions, more research is needed in online and in-person interventions, particularly beyond what has been demonstrated in breast cancer. There is also need to address concerns around the practical and psychosocial barriers that can diminish access to, and participation in such individual or group interventions. Internet-based interventions offer opportunity for greater access to tailored psychosocial care. Recent findings An emerging conceptualization of body image for cancer patients is discussed. Internet-delivered interventions targeting body image are outlined; the majority are pilot trials and those developed for breast cancer patients. Challenges found in online interventions are also discussed. Summary Internet-delivered body image interventions would benefit from a broader conceptualization of body image, greater methodological rig...
Source: Current Opinion in Supportive and Palliative Care - Category: Palliative Care Tags: COMMUNICATION IN CANCER: ITS IMPACT ON THE EXPERIENCE OF CANCER CARE: Edited by Elie Isenberg-Grzeda and Janet Ellis Source Type: research