Finding the best from the rest: evaluation of the quality of patient information on the Internet

Information is of utmost importance for patients at risk of developing cancer who require regular screening. Quality assessment is vital to ensure correct information is published on the Internet.

A postal questionnaire was sent to patients under follow-up for Barrett's oesophagus and colonic polyps. Questions related to computer/Internet access, where patients had previously sought information, whether web-sites would be of use, and what information they would like displayed. A review of on-line patient literature for Barrett's oesophagus and colorectal adenomas was performed.

Of the 200 questionnaires sent, 161 patients responded (80.1%). The majority of patients (88%, n = 141) wanted more information on their condition, with 45% (73) having home Internet access and a further 32% (52) having web access from other sources. Only 8% (12) had used the Internet as a source of information; however, the majority of patients (57%) would access a recommended web-site. The Barrett's search resulted in 10/200 sites with full information (i.e. score > 8/10 points). For colorectal polyps there were 12/200 sites.

Accessing quality Internet health information is very time consuming. Recommended web-sites that provide the best information would help patients avoid being overwhelmed with irrelevant and confusing literature.