Late effects of treatment for long-term cancer survivors: qualitative analysis of an online support group.
Ten million cancer survivors in the United States are at increased risk for developing late effects of treatment. Due to a lack of consistent follow-up care, many long-term cancer survivors use the Internet as a source of information and support. Research on online support for this cohort is lacking. The purposes of this study were to identify major themes related to long-term cancer survivorship and report late effects of treatment as described by members of an online support group. A qualitative descriptive method was utilized. Seventy-five long-term cancer survivors posted 300 messages online during an 8-week period and reported a wide variety of late effects. Three categorical schemes were identified: information exchange, symptomatology, and frustration with healthcare providers. Cancer survivors are utilizing Internet resources to find health-related information and support that has not been provided by healthcare providers. Additional research is needed to generate knowledge about the role of online support for long-term cancer survivors.
Klemm
Paula
P
School of Nursing, University of Delaware, Newark 19716, USA. klemmpa@udel.edu
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015331:Cohort Studies; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy*; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012657:Self-Help Groups; D017741:Survivors
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents