Body image and self-esteem of patients with onco-hematological diseases after chemotherapy

Abstract

© 2015, Polish Psychiatric Association. All rights reserved. Aim. To measure interactions between body image and self-esteem in patients with oncohematological diseases. Method. The study included 30 patients with diagnosis of acute leukemia or lymphoma at the beginning of chemotherapy and control group of 30 healthy people. The study uses a structured interview, Body Image Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Tennessee Self Concept Scale, Profile of Mood States. Results. The higher level of concerns, care and poorer body image in patients body was found in comparison to controls. The correlation between body image and self-esteem in patients with onco-hematological diseases has also been confirmed. A relation between positive attitude towards the body and reduction of tension and anxiety was found. Depression was associated with a change in attitude towards the body. Patients who have a higher level of self-esteem, like their bodies more. The more they are occupied with how their body looks, the higher the level of interest of negative emotions and moods they show. Conclusions. There is a relationship between body image and feelings in patients with onco-hematological diseases after intensive treatment with chemotherapy. Body image in this case is poorer, than in healthy people.