Body Image perceptions of the renal replacement population
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A cross-sectional survey to measure the body image perceptions of adult patients on renal replacement therapy.
IRAS ID
230435
Contact name
Jo Gilmartin
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Leeds
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 10 months, 31 days
Research summary
Body image anxiety is estimated to affect 1 in 4 people in the UK. The reasons for this are multi-factorial, but may be related to the media perceptions of an ideal body image or influences from family and peers. The consequences of a negative body image include low self-esteem, depression, and inappropriate weight control techniques. Previous research suggests that individuals on renal replacement therapy (dialysis or kidney transplantation) may have concerns regarding body image. Individuals on renal replacement therapy must manage several bodily changes including, fluctuations in weight, scars, and obtrusive dialysis access. NICE guidance recommends all individuals approaching end-stage kidney disease are educated about how the treatment options may affect their body image. To date, there is no large quantitative study examining the body image and weight perceptions of adult patients on all three forms of renal replacement therapy; haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis and kidney transplantation. As a result, it is not clear from the previous research which body parts or functions are associated with these body image concerns, or how they differ between gender, age and treatment modality. A questionnaire will measure body satisfaction, weight perception, and highlight body parts and functions that are affected by renal replacement therapy. In addition, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale, will identify any possible relationship between body dissatisfaction, depression and anxiety. Individuals within a large teaching hospital renal unit, who have been on dialysis or have a functioning kidney transplant for more than 90 days will be eligible to participate. Nephrology patients, with no previous history of requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant, will act as a control group. The findings will help to educate the multi-disciplinary team, to help support those individuals already on and those preparing to start their renal replacement journey.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - South Yorkshire Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/YH/0316
Date of REC Opinion
8 Nov 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion