Undergraduate Research

Identifying the Variables that Impact Body Image in Breast Cancer Patients

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Abstract

Breast cancer treatments often result in visible and lasting changes to physical appearance, which can negatively affect patients’ body image and psychological well-being. This scoping review examines how body image has been studied among breast cancer patients and identifies key variables influencing body image outcomes. Following Joanna Briggs Institute and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, systematic searches of MEDLINE, APA PsycINFO, Business Source Complete, and Scopus yielded 27 quantitative studies focused on breast cancer. The most frequently examined variables included type of surgery, education level, age, and employment status. Breast-conserving surgery, higher education, and older age were consistently associated with more favorable body image, while advanced cancer stage, mental health concerns, and employment-related social pressures were linked to poorer body image. Results underscore the need for psychosocial and behavioral interventions that address mental health, coping strategies, and modifiable self-investment factors to support recovery and quality of life among breast cancer survivors.

Keywords: Body Image, Breast Cancer, Physical Appearance, Body Investment, Quality of Life

How to Cite:

Tran, A., Carriveau, K., Langlais, M. & Yoo, J., (2025) “Identifying the Variables that Impact Body Image in Breast Cancer Patients”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 82(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.21980