TITLE:
Assessment of Body Image after Mastectomy among Women with Breast Cancer in Togo
AUTHORS:
Ablavi Adani-Ifè, Adama Diakité, Damigou Sambiani, Mohaman Djibril
KEYWORDS:
Breast Cancer, Mastectomy, Body Image, Body Image Scale, Togo
JOURNAL NAME:
Advances in Breast Cancer Research,
Vol.15 No.1,
January
26,
2026
ABSTRACT: Background: Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women worldwide. Mastectomy, while lifesaving, significantly impacts body image and psychosocial well-being. This study aimed to evaluate body image after mastectomy among women with breast cancer in Togo and to identify associated sociodemographic factors. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study was conducted from March to May 2024 at the Oncology Department of the Sylvanus Olympio University Teaching Hospital (CHU-SO) in Lomé. Body image was assessed using the Body Image Scale (BIS). Multiple linear regression was performed after logarithmic transformation of the BIS score to identify related factors. Results: Forty-two women who had undergone mastectomy participated. The average age was 47 ± 10 years (range 26 - 67). Most participants were married (64.3%) and had at least a secondary education (95%). The BIS score ranged from 10 to 37, with a median of 18 (IQR 13 - 25). Older women (≥50 years) had significantly lower BIS scores (β = −0.32; 95% CI [−0.56, −0.08]; p = 0.010), indicating better body image acceptance. Marital status and educational level were not significantly linked to body image disturbance. Conclusion: Body image is considerably affected after mastectomy, especially among younger women. Incorporating psychological support and body image rehabilitation into breast cancer care is essential in Togo.