Chemotherapy-Induced Hair Loss And Its Psychological Impacts: A Study Among Cancer Survivors In A Tertiary Care Centre, Chennai

The study conducted among 100 cancer survivors at a tertiary care center in Chennai highlights the significant psychological impacts of chemotherapy-induced hair loss (CIA). It found that 60% of participants experienced moderate hair loss, while 40% faced severe hair loss, with corresponding psychological impacts being moderate in 70% and severe in 30%. A strong positive correlation was observed between the severity of hair loss and psychological distress, with women and younger patients experiencing greater impacts. Factors such as education, employment status, cancer type, chemotherapy regimen, and psychological counselling were significant. The study concludes that addressing the psychological impacts of CIA through mental health support and counselling is crucial to improving the quality of life for cancer survivors.