The Impact of a Positive Body Image Program (Body Image Awareness Seminars) on the Positive and Negative Body Image of Individuals Living With Cancer.

Objective: Using action research principles to address gaps in existing interventions, and in consultation with members and administrators of Wellspring Canada, the purpose of the current study was to adapt and examine the impact of a novel (concept, content, and inclusivity) positive body image program (Body Image Awareness Seminars; BIAS) on positive and negative body image in individuals living with cancer.

Methods: The project used a single-group pretest-posttest design with a 6-week follow-up. Over the 6-week program, 37 participants engaged in 90-min weekly group sessions consisting of researcher-led psychoeducation, group discussion, and activities grounded in positive body image research. Each seminar had a unique theme designed to promote respect, acceptance, and appreciation for the body. Participants completed the Body Image Scale, Body Appreciation Scale-2, Functionality Appreciation Scale, Measure of Body Apperception, Appearance Evaluation subscale, and Self-Compassion Scale anonymously using Qualtrics at the 3 data collection points. Homework assignments included optional readings and writing exercises based on the positive body image tenet taught that week.

Results: Participants reported statistically significant improvements in positive body image (i.e., body appreciation, functionality appreciation), self-compassion, and negative body image (i.e., body image distress and disturbance, investment in body integrity and appearance evaluation), which were sustained at the 6-week follow-up in a subsample of participants (n = 11).

Conclusions: This study suggests that the adapted BIAS program can lead to improvements in both positive and negative body image in individuals living with diverse types of cancer. Results support the implementation of BIAS in the standard of care for those living with cancer to continue to affect positive change.