Pages: (51-65 )
Abstract
Background: Limb loss presents significant physical, psychological, and social challenges. Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), characterized by obsessive concerns over perceived physical defects, may further compromise the psychosocial well-being of individuals using prosthetic limbs. This study examined the prevalence of BDD symptoms and associated psychosocial impacts among prosthetic users in teaching hospitals in Lagos State. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among a convenience sample of 50 prosthetic limb users from two teaching hospitals (sample size based on Cochran’s formula, assuming 10% BDD prevalence). Data were collected using structured questionnaires, including the BDD-YBOCS (Body Dysmorphic Disorder–Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale), with scores ≥20 indicating clinical relevance. Additional tools assessed anxiety (GAD-7), self-esteem, perceived social stigma, and access to psychosocial support. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including chi-square tests and regression analyses, were performed using SPSS v26. Results: Clinically relevant BDD symptoms were present in 82% of respondents. Of these, 22% reported moderate functional impairment (BDD-YBOCS score 20–29) and 10% reported severe impairment (score ≥30). BDD severity was significantly associated with depressive symptoms (p < 0.001) and reduced social functioning (p = 0.035), but not with anxiety (p = 0.704) or self-esteem (p = 0.594). Financial stress significantly predicted higher BDD symptom severity (p = 0.035). Access to counseling or therapy was linked to better mental health outcomes (p = 0.023), while peer support and medical guidance showed no significant associations. Conclusion: The high prevalence of BDD symptoms among prosthetic users in Lagos highlighted the need for integrated psychosocial care in rehabilitation programs. Interventions targeting financial stress and expanding access to mental health services would improve outcomes. Given the cross-sectional design, causal inferences are limited; future longitudinal studies are recommended.
Keywords: Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Prosthetic Limb, Psychosocial Impact, Mental Health, Nigeria,