# Perceived Ostomy odor and body image disturbance in colorectal cancer survivors: differences by ostomy status and sex

## TL;DR

This study explores how ostomy odor affects body image in colorectal cancer survivors, finding stronger effects in those with temporary ostomies and women.

## Contribution

The study reveals that ostomy odor is linked to body image disturbance, with differences based on ostomy type and sex.

## Key findings

- Perceived ostomy odor is associated with greater body image disturbance.
- The association is stronger for those with temporary ostomies and among women.
- Odor management could help reduce body image issues in high-risk groups.

## Abstract

Ostomy-related odor is a common, distressing symptom, yet its association with body image disturbance (BID) in colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors remains understudied. We examined whether perceived ostomy odor was associated with BID and whether this association varied by ostomy status (temporary vs. permanent) and sex.

In a cross-sectional online survey of 130 CRC survivors with ostomies (Stages I–III), perceived ostomy odor was assessed with a single item and BID with the Body Image Scale. We used hierarchical multiple regression controlling for age, sex, BMI, cancer stage, time since ostomy surgery, and ostomy status, followed by interaction and stratified analyses.

Higher perceived ostomy odor was associated with greater BID (Model 2: B = 0.89, p = 0.006; ΔR2 = .044). The odor × ostomy status interaction was significant (B =  − 1.39, p = 0.031): odor was associated with BID among participants with a temporary ostomy (B = 1.98, p < 0.001) but not among those with a permanent ostomy (B = 0.21, p = 0.595). The odor × sex interaction was also significant (B =  − 1.44, p = 0.045): odor was associated with BID among women (B = 1.81, p = 0.003) but not men (B = 0.54, p = 0.133).

Perceived ostomy odor was associated with greater BID, with stronger associations among participants with temporary ostomies and among women. Odor management may be a clinically relevant target for reducing BID in higher risk subgroups.