Identifying the Supportive Care Needs of Men and Women Affected by Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia: A Systematic Review

July 2020 in “ Journal of cancer survivorship ”

Catherine Paterson, Maria Kozlovskaia, Murray Turner, Karen Strickland, Cara Roberts, Rebekah Ogilvie, Ganesalingam Pranavan, Paul Craft

chemotherapy-induced alopecia CIA psychological well-being quality of life body image supportive care needs oncology professionals chemotherapy hair loss cancer patient hair loss

Studysummary This review discusses the unmet supportive care needs of men and women experiencing chemotherapy-induced alopecia and reports no new results, urging healthcare providers to tailor interventions to individual patient needs.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

The systematic review evaluated 27 publications to identify the unmet supportive care needs of men and women affected by chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA). Both qualitative and quantitative studies revealed that CIA significantly impacted psychological well-being, quality of life, and body image, causing feelings of vulnerability and visibility as a "cancer patient." The review highlighted that many patients were unprepared for alopecia due to insufficient information and resources, leading to a range of unmet supportive care needs. The findings emphasized the necessity for tailored interventions and support to optimize psychological and physical well-being, urging oncology professionals to incorporate these insights into their consultations for effective, person-centered care.

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Research cited in this study

6 / 6 results

research Alopecia in Breast Cancer

1 citations , February 2018 in “Journal of Nursing UFPE on line”

This study explored the significance of alopecia for women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy and found that their experiences varied, influenced by personal and social factors, and the support from adornments, groups, and family.

research A Clinical and Biological Guide for Understanding Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia and Its Prevention

38 citations , September 2017 in “Oncologist”

This source reports that scalp cooling is currently the only safe and FDA-cleared method to potentially reduce chemotherapy-induced hair loss, with about a 50% chance of maintaining sufficient hair to avoid needing a wig.

research Madarosis: A Qualitative Study to Assess Perceptions and Experience of Australian Patients with Early Breast Cancer Treated with Taxane-Based Chemotherapy

11 citations , August 2017 in “Supportive care in cancer”

This study highlights the significant impact of eyebrow and eyelash loss during chemotherapy on women's quality of life, noting both emotional and physical challenges.

research Efficacy of Interventions for Prevention of Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

110 citations , August 2014 in “International journal of cancer”

This study found that scalp cooling significantly reduced the risk of chemotherapy-induced alopecia in breast cancer patients, while topical minoxidil and other interventions did not show significant efficacy.

Chemotherapy-Induced Dermatological Toxicity: Frequencies and Impact on Quality of Life in Women’s Cancers. Results of a Prospective Study

research Chemotherapy-Induced Dermatological Toxicity: Frequencies and Impact on Quality of Life in Women’s Cancers. Results of a Prospective Study

76 citations , August 2007 in “Supportive care in cancer”

The researchers reported that dermatological side effects from chemotherapy for women's cancers are common and significantly affect quality of life.

research Hair and Cancer Chemotherapy: Consequences and Nursing Care - A Literature Study

159 citations , September 2001 in “European Journal of Cancer Care”

This literature study reviews the consequences of hair loss due to chemotherapy and nursing care interventions but reports no new clinical results.