Social and Psychological Aspects

Examining the Relationship Between BMI and Body Image Concerns of Cancer Patients and Survivors 

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Abstract

Cancer patients and survivors frequently experience body image concerns due to treatment-related hormonal changes, weight fluctuations, and visible alterations in physical appearance. Guided by Bronfenbrenner’s socioecological model, this study examined the relationship between body image constructs and body mass index (BMI) among adults with current or past cancer diagnoses. Participants (N = 101) were recruited via Prolific and completed validated measures of body image satisfaction, cutaneous body image, cancer-related body image concerns, general body image concerns, and body appreciation, along with BMI. Results indicated that body image satisfaction was negatively associated with BMI, while cutaneous body image was positively associated with BMI. Cancer-specific body image concerns, general body image concerns, and body appreciation were not significantly related to BMI. Findings highlight the nuanced role of appearance-related perceptions in cancer survivorship and suggest implications for supportive care, health behaviors, and psychosocial interventions.

Keywords: Body Image, Cancer Patients, Body Weight, Cancer-related Body Image Concern, Survivalship

How to Cite:

Yoo, J. & Langlais, M., (2025) “Examining the Relationship Between BMI and Body Image Concerns of Cancer Patients and Survivors ”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 82(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.21976