The Effect of Alopesia on Body Image and Self-Esteem in Acute Leukemia Patients

The aim of study was to determine the effect of alopecia on body image and self-esteem in acute leukemia patients and to compare with healthy individuals. The descriptive study was performed at the hematology outpatient polyclinic, clinic and chemotherapy unit within 6 months. 91 patients with acute leukemia and 94 healthy individuals were included in the study. Data were collected by Patient/Healthy Information Form, Chemotherapy Induced Alopecia Quality of Life Scale (CIAQLS), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and Body Image Scale. Percentage, chi-square, student t test, ANOVA and Pearson correlation analyzes were performed by using SPSS. The rate of alopecia was 63.7% in acute leukemia patients and 57.4% in healthy individuals (p>0.05). However, alopecia level was found clearly seen in 84.5% of the patients and visibly invisible 75% in healthy individuals (p=0.000). It was determined that there was a positive relationship between the general health score of the patients and self-esteem and body image (p=0.000). Alopecia had negative effects on self-esteem in patients with acute leukemia and did not affect body image. Considering its relationship with general health in patients with acute leukemia, the effect of alopecia on patients, self-esteem and body image are thought to be evaluated