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Cancer patients' self-reported attitudes about the Internet
Sheryl P LaCoursiere1, M Tish Knobf, Ruth McCorkle
1Center for Excellence in Chronic Illness Care, Yale University School of Nursing, New Haven, CT 06536-0740, USA. sheryl.lacoursiere@yale.edu
Journal of Medical Internet Research
|July 7, 2005
Summary
Cancer patients actively use the internet for health information and support, showing a willingness to share and receive information online. They trust reputable sources and feel more confident managing their illness through online engagement.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Digital Health
- Patient Support
Background:
- Growing number of cancer patients utilize internet for health information.
- Limited understanding of patient attitudes towards online healthcare.
Purpose of the Study:
- Analyze cancer patients' attitudes toward online healthcare.
- Assess patient engagement with digital health resources.
Main Methods:
- Substudy of 41 cancer patients using the internet for health.
- Utilized the Attitudes Toward Online Health Care (ATOHC) survey.
- Collected data on patient demographics and online behavior.
Main Results:
- Patients expressed positive attitudes towards online health communities and information seeking.
- High self-efficacy in evaluating online health information was reported.
- Trust varied, with a preference for established sources like Medscape and WebMD.
Conclusions:
- Cancer patients are eager to engage with online health information and support.
- Patients demonstrated confidence in evaluating online resources and a willingness to share data for personalized information.
- Online interactions helped patients cope better with their illness, reducing anxiety and uncertainty.