Effectiveness of a self-makeup program for Brazilian women with breast cancer

Abstract

Purpose

We aim to evaluate the effectiveness of a self-makeup program for Brazilian women with breast cancer by measuring different psychological variables and coping strategies.

Design

A quasi-experimental, longitudinal, within-group study.

Sample

One hundred fifty-two women undergoing treatment for breast cancer.

Methods

Indicators of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, body image, and coping strategies were evaluated before the workshop (baseline), immediately after the workshop (Time 1) and one month after the workshop (Time 2).

Findings

The self-makeup program was effective at Times 1 and 2. At Time 1, only a decrease in the anxiety score was observed (Cohen’s d= −0.41; p < 0.001). At Time 2, the results were stronger and statistically significant (p ≤ 0.001), showing decreased anxiety (d = −0.62) and depression (d = −0.46) and improved self-esteem (d = 0.61) and satisfaction with the body (d = 0.46) and appearance (d = 0.48). No significant changes were observed in coping strategies, except for denial (d = −0.26).

Implication for psychosocial providers or policy

The self-makeup program effectively improved psychological variables, especially one month after the intervention. This program can be used as an adjuvant to treatment to promote mental health and humanize the hospital environment.

Keywords:

• Anxiety
• body image
• breast cancer
• coping
• cosmetic education program
• depression
• self-esteem

Disclosure statement

The authors have no relevant financial or nonfinancial interests to disclose.

Ethical aspects

This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Teaching and Research Institute of the Barretos Cancer Hospital (Process nos. 1.780.271, 2.276.286, 2.564.755 and 3.315.747).

Funding

National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq – Productivity Research Fellows - Process No. 302601/2019-8) = Flávia de Lima Osório.