BMJ  2004;328 (6 March), doi:10.1136/bmj.328.7439.0-d

The internet changes patients' experience of cancer

Cancer patients use the internet to obtain information and support at different stages of their illness. Ziebland and colleagues (p 564) interviewed 175 patients with cancer, to explore how they used and perceived internet information on the disease. The internet allowed people to check the tests, treatment, and advice they received from health professionals, and patients gained expertise about their condition, which helped them to cope with their illness. The internet is rarely used by people who are socially disadvantaged, the authors say, and the challenge is to ensure that access is broadened to avoid an increase in social class divisions.

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How the internet affects patients' experience of cancer: a qualitative study

Sue Ziebland, Alison Chapple, Carol Dumelow, Julie Evans, Suman Prinjha, and Linda Rozmovits
BMJ 2004 328: 564. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]

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