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Physical appearance and well-being in adults with incurable cancer: A thematic analysis

Tollow, Philippa; Ogden, Jane; McCabe, Candida S.; Harcourt, Diana

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Authors

Jane Ogden

Candy McCabe Candy.Mccabe@uwe.ac.uk
Professor of Clinical Research and Practice

Diana Harcourt Diana2.Harcourt@uwe.ac.uk
Professor in Appearance Research



Abstract

Objectives: Existing research has established the importance of appearance concerns for individuals with cancer and identified appearance as an important factor in dying with dignity. No research, however, has explored in depth the role of appearance in the experiences of individuals who have incurable cancer. This research aims to explore patients' experiences and perspectives in relation to the role of appearance issues in adults with incurable cancer. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 24 adults with incurable cancer (20 women, 4 men; mean age 54.5, SD 11.32). Results: Thematic analysis generated three themes: 'Identity: Embodying Cancer', 'Communication: Wearing your illness' and 'Support: Holistic Care'. Appearance was felt to be an important element of identity, which was often dominated by cancer, leading to feelings of separation from the participant's previous self. Appearance changes also influenced the way in which individuals communicated with their external world, forcing discussion of their diagnosis, and increasing focus on their cancer, with participants having to manage the emotional impact of this on loved ones, as well as the impact on their legacy. Finally, participants highlighted the positive impact of appearance-related support in their well-being and identified peer connections and refocusing on the self as key elements of such support. Conclusions: Appearance changes play an important role in the experiences of individuals with incurable cancer with regards to both identity and communication and challenged participants' ability to maintain normalcy. Further psychosocial support relating to appearance concerns was considered necessary to promote dignity and provide truly holistic patient care.

Citation

Tollow, P., Ogden, J., McCabe, C. S., & Harcourt, D. (2023). Physical appearance and well-being in adults with incurable cancer: A thematic analysis. BMJ Supportive and Palliative Care, 13(e1), e163-e169. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjspcare-2020-002632

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Nov 5, 2020
Online Publication Date Nov 27, 2020
Publication Date Oct 18, 2023
Deposit Date Nov 16, 2020
Publicly Available Date Mar 28, 2024
Journal BMJ Supportive and Palliative Care
Print ISSN 2045-435X
Electronic ISSN 2045-4368
Publisher BMJ Publishing Group
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 13
Issue e1
Pages e163-e169
DOI https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjspcare-2020-002632
Public URL https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/6851419

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