Psychological sequelae and alopecia among women with cancer

PURPOSE: This article reviews the relevant literature on treatment-induced alopecia in women with cancer and describes the development of a computer-a ssisted intervention to reduce distress associated with this side effect. DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAM: Alopecia has been cited as the most disturbing anti cipated side effect by up to 58% of women preparing for chemotherapy, vith 8% being at risk for avoiding treatment. Women with cancer who experience a lopecia as a side effect, compared with women with cancer and no alopecia, report lower self-esteem, poorer body image, and lower quality of life. Alt hough physicians' recommendations are the most influential factor on cancer treatment choice, body image and effects on sexuality are the next most in fluential factors. A study of a computer-imaging intervention, based on con cepts related to guided imagery and anticipatory grief, has been launched i n an effort to aid women in coping with anticipated treatment-related alope cia. RESULTS: While we are still waiting for final data collection and analysis from the computer intervention study, the feedback thus far has been positi ve. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: The intervention described here May prove to be effe ctive hi desensitizing women with cancer to hair loss and facilitating an a djustment to self-acceptance. As such, a higher quality of life during the difficult time of coping may be maintained. The development of a computer-i maging intervention offers an opportunity to integrate a standard psychosoc ial intervention, personalized for each patient, into the routine patient c are in the oncology setting.