Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia: Can We Measure the Level of Distress in Oncology Patients? (The ALDO Study)

Abstract

Chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) has a strong and definite negative impact on body image in terms of perception of aging, depression, loss of interest, and confidence. This study involved the translation and validation of the chemotherapy-induced alopecia distress scale (CADS) into Hindi and Marathi (stage I) and the translated versions were used to assess the distress level associated with CIA at our tertiary care center (stage II). The level of distress associated with CIA was measured in terms of mild, moderate, and severe distress. The majority of the patients (58.66%) experienced severe distress due to CIA. The study demonstrates the validity and reliability of the CAD scale in our population. Indian married women with higher age group with cancer are affected more due to CIA. There was no significant association between socioeconomic status, number of chemotherapy cycles received, frequency of chemotherapy administration, and CIA distress. CADS is valid and predictive of the presence of severe distress in our chemotherapy patients. The treatment or prevention of CIA should be preceded by the counseling and support provided by the chemotherapy nurses.