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Visualizing risks in cancer communication: A systematic review of computer-supported visual aids
Jan Stellamanns1, Dana Ruetters2, Keshav Dahal3
1Deutsche Krebsgesellschaft (German Cancer Society), Kuno-Fischer-Straße 8, 14057 Berlin, Germany; Department Health Sciences, Hamburg University of Applied Sciences (HAW Hamburg), Ulmenliet 20, 21033 Hamburg, Germany; School of Engineering and Computing, University of the West of Scotland (UWS), Paisley, PA1 2BE Scotland, UK.
Static graphs show promise for improving cancer risk communication online, but results are inconsistent. Dynamic visualizations offer no clear benefit and require more research.
Area of Science:
- Health communication
- Data visualization
- Cancer risk assessment
Background:
- Online health websites are crucial for cancer information.
- Patients and the public face biases with quantitative data.
- Graphical representations can aid risk data comprehension.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence on computer-supported graphs for risk data.
- To assess effects on comprehension and decision-making.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search across multiple databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL).
- Inclusion of studies with controlled designs.
- Critical appraisal by two independent reviewers.
Main Results:
- Thirteen studies examined static (10) and dynamic (3) graphs.
- Static graphs showed potential for improving accuracy and comprehension.
- Dynamic formats did not outperform static graphs and sometimes impaired performance.
Conclusions:
- Static graphs offer potential but yield inconsistent results.
- Dynamic visualizations require more research due to limitations.
- Well-designed static graphs can aid web-based cancer risk communication.
