WASHINGTON D.C.- August 25, 2025 – many cancer patients are putting off life-saving treatment due to a significant fear of hair loss and other skin-related side effects, a recent study reveals.
Dermatological Side Effects Deter Cancer Patients from Treatment
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Fear of visible changes from cancer therapies can significantly impact treatment decisions.
- Up to one-third of cancer patients may refuse treatment due to concerns about skin and hair side effects.
- Visible changes like hair loss significantly impact a patient’s identity and self-esteem.
- Patients often overestimate the prevalence of these side effects.
- Oncologists should proactively discuss dermatological concerns and integrate dermatology into care plans.
Researchers found that when potential dermatological side effects, such as hair loss and nail discoloration, were explained to patients, as many as one-third stated thay woudl be deterred from starting treatment for any type of cancer.Adam Friedman, a professor of dermatology, authored the study, noting that these findings underscore the profound impact of dermatological issues on patient decision-making, which often carry as much weight as systemic side effects like fatigue or nausea.
Skin and Hair Concerns: More Than Cosmetic
Anticancer treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation, can cause a range of dermatological side effects. Patients often overestimate the likelihood of experiencing hair loss and other dermatological side effects.For instance, respondents believed chemotherapy caused hair loss more than half the time, while actual rates vary between 14.7 percent and 52.1 percent.
This gap in knowledge, Friedman explained, means oncologists should consider “proactive” referrals to dermatologists. Dermatologists can help educate patients about potential side effects and management strategies.
“If patients understand there’s a plan to manage side effects before they start therapy, they’re less likely to see these changes as an unavoidable and unacceptable trade-off,” Friedman stated.
Friedman’s team was motivated to study this topic by the limited data on how individual perceptions of dermatological side effects influence cancer treatment choices. He hopes the research will encourage earlier discussions about these concerns.
“By acknowledging these issues up front, integrating dermatology into oncology care, and tailoring management plans, we can support patients in staying the course with life saving therapies,” he added.
Holistic Support for Cancer Patients
Experts emphasize that body image and self-identity are crucial considerations for many patients. Anne Moyer, a professor of social and health psychology, noted that hair loss can be particularly distressing for women, as hair is often deeply tied to their sense of femininity.
“Losing one’s hair also is a visible reminder of cancer and an indicator to the outside world that one is being treated for cancer,” Moyer said. She added that these visible side effects, combined with the physical toll of cancer, can become “debilitating” for patients.
To address this,moyer suggested integrating exercise,mental health support,and support groups to help patients cope with the emotional stress of cancer and its treatments.
“Support for informed decision making is useful, and this includes decision aids that help people assess their values and fully understand the short and long-term implications of a treatment decision,” Moyer said.
Ty Lostutter, an associate professor of psychology, advised that offering compassion, kindness, and understanding is vital for those experiencing dermatological side effects. He cautioned that overwhelming patients with information can be intrusive and counterproductive.
Lostutter highlighted that respecting a patient’s individuality and wishes, whether it involves using wigs or makeup, is among the most “meaningful” ways to support them.
“There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach; each person’s journey with cancer is unique,” Lostutter said. “By following their lead, respecting their boundaries, and approaching them with empathy and humanity, we can create a culture that supports rather than isolates those navigating cancer.”
