Measurement Properties of Health Information-Seeking Behavior Assessment Tools in Cancer Patients: A Systematic...

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences
• Information Science
• Oncology

Background:

• Health information-seeking behaviors (HISB) are crucial for cancer patient self-management and treatment adherence.
• Existing instruments for assessing HISB in cancer patients vary in quality and applicability.
• A systematic evaluation of these instruments is needed to guide clinical practice and research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and appraise instruments measuring health information-seeking behaviors in cancer patients.
• To evaluate the psychometric properties and methodological rigor of available assessment tools.
• To identify the most suitable instrument for clinical application in oncology.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review adhering to COSMIN methodology.
• Searched nine electronic databases (CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, SinoMed, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL, APA PsycINFO) from inception to February 2025.
• Independent dual screening and assessment of psychometric properties using COSMIN criteria.

Main Results:

• 16 studies met eligibility criteria, evaluating 11 distinct instruments.
• Seven instruments received a Class B recommendation, while BIAS, HIOS, PSM, and MBSS had insufficient validity (Class C).
• The MHISBQ demonstrated relatively comprehensive measurement attributes compared to others.

Conclusions:

• The MHISBQ is provisionally recommended for assessing HISB in cancer patients.
• Further large-scale studies are needed to validate the MHISBQ's stability, responsiveness, and impact on patient outcomes.
• Research should focus on diverse cancer populations to refine HISB assessment and guide health information delivery.