Effect of Psycho-educational Program on Emotional Distress, Body Image and Quality of Sexual Life among Women with Breast Cancer

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Psychiatric and Mental Health nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Benha University, Egypt

2 Community Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Benha University, Egypt

10.21608/ejnsr.2025.382800.1449

Abstract

Background: Worldwide, breast cancer continues to be one of the most common cancers to strike
women, with significant physical, psychological, and social implications. Aim: Evaluate the effect of a
structured psycho-educational program on emotional distress, body image, and sexual quality of life among
women with breast cancer. Subject and methods: A purposive sample of 161 women with a diagnosis with
breast cancer participated in a quasi-experimental design at the Benha Insurance Hospital's Oncology
Outpatient Clinic. Data collection instruments were used: Tool (I): Structured interviewing questionnaire
sheet- gathered socio-demographic and clinical data, Tool (II): Perceived Emotional Distress Inventory
(PEDI), Tool (III): Body Image Scale (BIS), and Tool (IV): The Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQOL-F).
The study group showed a significant reduction in emotional distress scores and significant improvements
in body image and sexual well-being post-intervention compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The study
concluded that the psycho-educational program demonstrated a significant positive impact on reducing
emotional distress and enhancing both body image and sexual quality of life among women with breast
cancer. Therefore, this study recommended that healthcare providers should integrate psycho-educational
support into standard oncology services to ensure more comprehensive, patient-centered care. 

Keywords