An exploratory study in breast cancer of factors involved in the use and communication with health professionals of Internet information

Cristian Ochoa-Arnedo, Aida Flix-Valle, Anna Casellas-Grau, Nuria Casanovas-Aljaro, Olga Herrero, Enric C. Sumalla, María Lleras de Frutos, Agustina Sirgo, Ana Rodríguez, Gloria Campos, Yolanda Valverde, Noémie Travier, Joan Carles Medina

    Research output: Indexed journal article Articlepeer-review

    15 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    Objective: To study the impact of the spontaneous use of Internet on breast cancer patients and on their relationship with health professionals. Methods: A mixed methodology was used. Two questionnaires were designed through three focus groups, and then administered to 186 patients and 59 professionals in order to assess: (1) patients’ use of Internet for health-related information and (2) the impact of this information on patients’ psychological outcomes and on their relationship with professionals. Results: Patients spent more time looking for illness-related information after diagnosis, using interactive communities more than static information websites. Patients and professionals disagreed about the use of Internet in terms of the knowledge it provides, and its psychological impact. The main barrier reported by patients regarding the sharing of online information with their professionals was the belief that it would damage their relationship. Conclusions: Both professionals and patients have a protectionist conception of the therapeutic relationship. This attitude tends to dismiss the positive impact that the use of Internet and the new communication tools may have in cancer patients. New resources should provide an “Internet Prescription” and modes of interaction to facilitate a more open digital communication.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)4989-4996
    Number of pages8
    JournalSupportive Care in Cancer
    Volume28
    Issue number10
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 1 Oct 2020

    Keywords

    • Breast cancer
    • Internet prescription
    • Oncology
    • Therapeutic relationship

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