A Cross-Sectional Study of Body Image Dissatisfaction and Self-Esteem Among Breast Cancer Patients in Rawalpindi/Islamabad

Abstract

This study is intended to find out the relationship between body image dissatisfaction and self-esteem among breast cancer patients in Rawalpindi/Islamabad using cross-sectional research design with correlational analysis. Literature suggests that breast cancer patients experience body dissatisfaction and low self-esteem after physical changes which can negatively affect the treatment process as well. As the onset of breast cancer in Pakistani women is increasing rapidly, it is important to highlight the psychological concerns which can serve as a baseline in developing intervention in this area and plan strategies to help these patients manage their body image concerns. Female participants (n = 150) were selected through purposive sampling from government and private hospitals within Rawalpindi and Islamabad. After voluntary consent, Urdu versions of Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale and Appearance Anxiety Inventory were administered on this sample. The results were then analyzed using SPSS version 26. The results showed that there is a negative and significant relationship between body image dissatisfaction and self-esteem. Demographic variable of marital status is shown to produce a significant difference in self-esteem but other demographics such as age and socio-economic status do not affect it. The results indicated a significant negative correlation between body image dissatisfaction and self-esteem (r = -0.490, p < .01), confirming the primary hypothesis. Additionally, marital status showed a statistically significant effect on self-esteem (?² = 8.883, p = .031), whereas age and socioeconomic status did not yield significant differences (p > .05). These findings underscore the need for psychological support programs that address body image and self-esteem in breast cancer care, with a focus on marital and social support structures.