The Impact of the Internet on Cancer Outcomes

Abstract

Each day, more than 12.5 million health-related computer searches are conducted on the World Wide Web. Based on a meta-analysis of 24 published surveys, the author estimates that in the developed world, about 39% of persons with cancer are using the Internet, and approximately 2.3 million persons living with cancer worldwide are online. In addition, 15%to 20% of persons with cancer use the Internet "indirectly" through family and friends. Based on a comprehensive review of the literature, the available evidence on how persons with cancer are using the Internet and the effect of Internet use on persons with cancer is summarized. The author distinguishes four areas of Internet use: communication (electronic mail), community (virtual support groups), content (health information on the World Wide Web), and e-commerce. A conceptual framework summarizing the factors involved in a possible link between Internet use and cancer outcomes is presented, and future areas for research are highlighted. (CA Cancer J Clin 2003;53:356 -371.)

Investigation of Cancer Patients’ Information Sources, Information Needs and Expectations of Health Professionals

“…(2006), tanı almış kanser hastalarının %67'sinin internet yolu ile bilgi edindiğini bulmuştur. [26] Eysenbach (2003), kanser hastalarının internet kullanım oranlarının yüksek olduğunu vurgulamıştır. [27] Günümüzde internet kullanımı günden güne artmaktadır.…”

“…[26] Eysenbach (2003), kanser hastalarının internet kullanım oranlarının yüksek olduğunu vurgulamıştır. [27] Günümüzde internet kullanımı günden güne artmaktadır. İnternet kullanımının yaygınlaşmasıyla bloglar web kullanıcılarının bilgi paylaşımı için majör bir platform haline gelmiştir.…”

Dental patients' use of the Internet

“…18 Eysenbach suggests that healthcare professionals should acknowledge that patients are independently seeking information and therefore teach patients how to analyse and fi lter this information. 19 The Journal of the American Dental Association have published guidelines for patients regarding oral health information on the Internet. 20 Patients were encouraged to be cautious about information available online, to question the source, qualifi cations of the provider and the scientifi c validity of that which they read.…”

Enhancing psychosocial care for people with cancer in rural communities: what can remote counselling offer?

“…44 Other advantages of OSGs over faceto-face groups include the absence of geographical and mobility barriers, anonymity for sensitive issues and the possibility of patients with rare conditions finding peers. 84 Disadvantages of the OSG vary from the volume of email received to lack of in-person contact. In some circumstances, OSGs may exacerbate a participant' s feelings of social isolation and reduced psychological wellbeing instead of strengthening a sense of social support.…”

“…In some circumstances, OSGs may exacerbate a participant' s feelings of social isolation and reduced psychological wellbeing instead of strengthening a sense of social support. 84 One study reported significantly higher levels of depression in oncology patients who take part in OSGs compared with those who attended face-toface support group meetings. 85 This uncontrolled cross sectional study had methodological constraints and the extent to which the Internet plays a causal or contributory role in the association with depression was not demonstrated.…”