Early Diagnosis of Skin and Breast Cancer in Women: Influence of Body Image Perception

Abstract

Background. The diagnosis of melanoma and breast cancer may impact many aspects of life with significant reductions in emotional functioning and quality of life. Aims. Aim of the study was to analyze the emotional traits of female patients with oncological diagnosis (early stage melanoma/breast cancer) investigating prevalence and predictors for psychological stress. Methods. A sample of 84 female patients (age range 30-50 years) with diagnosis of melanoma/breast cancer stage T0-T2 participated in the study. The examined emotional variables were: psychological distress, depression, stress, anxiety, metacognitions and body self-perception. Results. Findings showed higher psychological distress in breast cancer than melanoma patients and, that was related to lower positive self-perception of body image. No significant difference between cancer staging. Conclusions. Prevention and intervention protocols must be adapted taking into account tumor type in the adoption of preventive behaviors and compliance with medical recommendations during survivorship.