Body image dissatisfaction in association with disease activity, treatment, DASS and general happiness in IBD

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the association between body image dissatisfaction (BID) in patients of IBD with factors relating to their disease and their emotional states. This was a mixed study of cross-sectional and correlational design. Participants (n = 111) completed a self-reporting questionnaire on demographics, disease type, disease activity, drug treatment types and surgical procedures. Depression, anxiety, stress and general happiness scales were also included. Qualitative questions (n = 4) addressed the interference IBD had on the patient’s daily life. The results found a significant difference in BID in patients with Crohn’s disease, moderate to severe disease activity and cortisol steroid use. BID was found to predict DASS and general happiness in patients. Depression and anxiety was found to predict BID in patients revealing a bi-directional relationship. The presence of BID, negative emotions and the interference these have on patients functioning should be considered in the treatment of IBD. Author keywords: Body image dissatisfaction, IBD, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, depression, anxiety, stress, general happiness, disease activity, disease treatment