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Suarez NRE, Morrow AS, LaVecchia CM, Dugas M, Carnovale V, Maraboto A, Leon-Garcia M, Lucar M, Hasset LC, Diallo TT, Dupéré S, LeBlanc A. Connected and supported: a scoping review of how online communities provide social support for breast cancer survivors. J Cancer Surviv 2024:10.1007/s11764-024-01660-w. [PMID: 39196462 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-024-01660-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To (i) assess how and to what extent online communities are used among breast cancer survivors (BCS) as a source of social support, (ii) describe the kind of support BCS access through online communities, and (iii) explore how these communities foster social support for BCS that promotes well-being and reduces the challenges of survivorship. METHODS We conducted a scoping review. A professional librarian performed a comprehensive search in multiple databases from January 2010 to May 2023. The review process adhered to the Johana Briggs Institute's method guidelines and the PRISMA-ScR reporting system. RESULTS Fifteen studies were included. Participants used social media, cancer support communities, message boards, or websites for information and emotional support. Qualitative findings resulted in four themes: to reassure; to empower; to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion; and to demonstrate for BCS the drawbacks of online support. CONCLUSIONS We underscore that a variety of internet websites and social media platforms are valuable for and appreciated by BCS, especially as a source of social support and human connectedness. Our study raises the existing gap in cultural/ethnic representation in this field and shows that institutional and organizational efforts are needed to address gaps in information regarding access to social support for multiethnic BCS women. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS This data synthesis will empower the BCS community by sharing how they can strengthen and support their peers and community via their participation in online communities that connect and support cancer survivors in healthcare spaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataly R Espinoza Suarez
- VITAM - Centre for Sustainable Health Research, Integrated University Health and Social Services Center of Capitale-Nationale, Quebec City, QC, Canada.
| | - Allison S Morrow
- Evidence-Based Practice Center, Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Christina M LaVecchia
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research (KER) Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of English, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Michèle Dugas
- VITAM - Centre for Sustainable Health Research, Integrated University Health and Social Services Center of Capitale-Nationale, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Valérie Carnovale
- VITAM - Centre for Sustainable Health Research, Integrated University Health and Social Services Center of Capitale-Nationale, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Andrea Maraboto
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research (KER) Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Montserrat Leon-Garcia
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research (KER) Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miriam Lucar
- Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | | | - Thierno Thierno Diallo
- VITAM - Centre for Sustainable Health Research, Integrated University Health and Social Services Center of Capitale-Nationale, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec-Université Laval Research Centre, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Nursing, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Sophie Dupéré
- Faculty of Nursing, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Annie LeBlanc
- VITAM - Centre for Sustainable Health Research, Integrated University Health and Social Services Center of Capitale-Nationale, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Family and Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
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Yang EF, Kornfield R, Liu Y, Chih MY, Sarma P, Gustafson D, Curtin J, Shah D. Using Machine Learning of Online Expression to Explain Recovery Trajectories: Content Analytic Approach to Studying a Substance Use Disorder Forum. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e45589. [PMID: 37606984 PMCID: PMC10481212 DOI: 10.2196/45589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Smartphone-based apps are increasingly used to prevent relapse among those with substance use disorders (SUDs). These systems collect a wealth of data from participants, including the content of messages exchanged in peer-to-peer support forums. How individuals self-disclose and exchange social support in these forums may provide insight into their recovery course, but a manual review of a large corpus of text by human coders is inefficient. OBJECTIVE The study sought to evaluate the feasibility of applying supervised machine learning (ML) to perform large-scale content analysis of an online peer-to-peer discussion forum. Machine-coded data were also used to understand how communication styles relate to writers' substance use and well-being outcomes. METHODS Data were collected from a smartphone app that connects patients with SUDs to online peer support via a discussion forum. Overall, 268 adult patients with SUD diagnoses were recruited from 3 federally qualified health centers in the United States beginning in 2014. Two waves of survey data were collected to measure demographic characteristics and study outcomes: at baseline (before accessing the app) and after 6 months of using the app. Messages were downloaded from the peer-to-peer forum and subjected to manual content analysis. These data were used to train supervised ML algorithms using features extracted from the Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC) system to automatically identify the types of expression relevant to peer-to-peer support. Regression analyses examined how each expression type was associated with recovery outcomes. RESULTS Our manual content analysis identified 7 expression types relevant to the recovery process (emotional support, informational support, negative affect, change talk, insightful disclosure, gratitude, and universality disclosure). Over 6 months of app use, 86.2% (231/268) of participants posted on the app's support forum. Of these participants, 93.5% (216/231) posted at least 1 message in the content categories of interest, generating 10,503 messages. Supervised ML algorithms were trained on the hand-coded data, achieving F1-scores ranging from 0.57 to 0.85. Regression analyses revealed that a greater proportion of the messages giving emotional support to peers was related to reduced substance use. For self-disclosure, a greater proportion of the messages expressing universality was related to improved quality of life, whereas a greater proportion of the negative affect expressions was negatively related to quality of life and mood. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights a method of natural language processing with potential to provide real-time insights into peer-to-peer communication dynamics. First, we found that our ML approach allowed for large-scale content coding while retaining moderate-to-high levels of accuracy. Second, individuals' expression styles were associated with recovery outcomes. The expression types of emotional support, universality disclosure, and negative affect were significantly related to recovery outcomes, and attending to these dynamics may be important for appropriate intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellie Fan Yang
- School of Communication and Mass Media, Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville, MO, United States
| | - Rachel Kornfield
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Yan Liu
- School of Journalism and Communication, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming-Yuan Chih
- College of Health Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | | | - David Gustafson
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - John Curtin
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Dhavan Shah
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
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Yang Y, Lin Y, Sikapokoo GO, Min SH, Caviness-Ashe N, Zhang J, Ledbetter L, Nolan TS. Social relationships and their associations with affective symptoms of women with breast cancer: A scoping review. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0272649. [PMID: 35939490 PMCID: PMC9359609 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0272649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Problems in affective and cognitive functioning are among the most common concurrent symptoms that breast cancer patients report. Social relationships may provide some explanations of the clinical variability in affective-cognitive symptoms. Evidence suggests that social relationships (functional and structural aspects) can be associated with patients' affective-cognitive symptoms; however, such an association has not been well studied in the context of breast cancer. PURPOSE The purpose of this scoping review was to address the following question: What social relationships are associated with affective-cognitive symptoms of women with breast cancer? METHODS This scoping review used the framework proposed by Arksey and O'Malley and PRISMA-Sc. Studies published by February 2022 were searched using four databases: MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase (Elsevier), PsycINFO (EBSCOhost), and Web of Science (Clarivate). All retrieved citations were independently screened and eligibility for inclusion was determined by study team members. Extracted data included research aims, design, sample, type and measures of social relationships (functional and structural), and the association between social relationships and affective-cognitive symptoms. RESULTS A total of 70 studies were included. Affective symptoms were positively associated with social support, family functioning, quality of relationships, social networks, and social integration, whereas the negative association was found with social constraints. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest positive social relationships may mitigate affective symptoms of women with breast cancer. Thus, health care providers need to educate patients about the importance of building solid social relationships and encourage them to participate in a supportive network of friends and family members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yesol Yang
- Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center-James, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Yufen Lin
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | | | - Se Hee Min
- School of Nursing, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Nicole Caviness-Ashe
- School of Nursing, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Jing Zhang
- College of Nursing, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Leila Ledbetter
- Duke University Medical Center Library, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Timiya S. Nolan
- College of Nursing, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
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Experiences and perspectives of ethnocultural breast cancer survivors in the interior region of British Columbia: A descriptive cross-sectional approach. CLINICAL EPIDEMIOLOGY AND GLOBAL HEALTH 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cegh.2022.101095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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5
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Walshe C, Roberts D, Calman L, Appleton L, Croft R, Perez Algorta G, Skevington S, Lloyd-Williams M, Grande G. Peer Mentors for People with Advanced Cancer: Lessons Learnt from Recruiting and Training Peer Mentors for a Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2021; 36:710-718. [PMID: 31994006 PMCID: PMC8328854 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-020-01692-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Peer mentors may offer distinctive forms of support to people with advanced cancer. Whilst peer mentor programmes are known, little is understood about recruiting and training peer mentors to support those with advanced cancer. The purpose of this study is to determine the feasibility of recruiting and training peer mentors for a novel peer mentor intervention to promote well-being in people with advanced cancer. Feasibility study testing proactive introduction to a trained peer mentor for 12 weeks in the context of a randomized controlled two-arm trial and nested qualitative process evaluation was used. Peer mentors have/had cancer, recruited via an open call. Two-day training included a new bespoke module on coping with cancer. Descriptive recruitment and training data were captured, supplemented by qualitative interviews, analysed thematically. Forty-eight people expressed interest, mostly female (69%), with breast cancer (32%), and recruited via social media (49%). Twelve people completed training, with attrition often due to availability or mentors' own health; many had advanced cancer themselves. They wanted to 'give something back', but also formed supportive bonds with fellow mentors. It is feasible to recruit and train people with lived experience of cancer to be peer mentors, but those with particular characteristics may predominate. Broad social media based recruitment may have merit in widening the pool of potential peer mentors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Walshe
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK.
| | - Diane Roberts
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, Manchester University, Manchester, UK
| | - Lynn Calman
- Macmillan Survivorship Research Group, School of Health Sciences, Southampton University, Southampton, UK
| | - Lynda Appleton
- Clatterbridge Cancer Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Wirral, UK
| | | | | | - Suzanne Skevington
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, School of Psychological Sciences, Manchester University, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Gunn Grande
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, Manchester University, Manchester, UK
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6
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Cao B, Wang D, Wang Y, Hall BJ, Wu N, Wu M, Ma Q, Tucker JD, Lv X. Moderating effect of people-oriented public health services on depression among people under mandatory social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study in China. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1374. [PMID: 34247618 PMCID: PMC8272985 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11457-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Public health measures, such as social isolation, are vital to control the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), but such measures may increase the risk of depression. Thus, this study examines the influencing and moderating factors of depressive symptoms among individuals subjected to mandatory social isolation. METHODS An online cross-sectional survey was conducted to collect data from people under mandatory home or centralized social isolation in Shenzhen, China, from February 28 to March 6, 2020. The perceived risk of infection with COVID-19, perceived tone of media coverage, perceived quality of people-oriented public health services, and their depressive symptoms were assessed. Three rounds of stepwise multiple regression were performed to examine the moderating effects after controlling various variables, such as demographics, duration and venue of mandatory social isolation, infection and isolation status of family, time spent on COVID-related news, and online social support. RESULTS Among the 340 participants, 57.6% were men, the average age was 35.5 years old (SD = 8.37), and 55.6% held a bachelor's degree or above. Individuals subjected to mandatory social isolation generally reported low levels of depressive symptoms. Perceived susceptibility to infection was relatively low, whereas perceived tone of media coverage was mainly positive. In terms of perceived quality of public health services, 12 (3.5%), 103 (30.3%), and 225 (66.2%) participants reported low, medium, and high quality of people-oriented services, respectively. Perceived susceptibility was positively associated with depression, whereas perceived tone of media coverage was negatively associated. The quality of people-centered public health services moderated the association between perceived risk and depressive symptoms and between perceived tone of media coverage and depressive symptoms. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed the depressive symptoms among individuals subjected to mandatory social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic and highlighted that frontline public health workers play a critical role in protecting public mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bolin Cao
- School of Media and Communication, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongya Wang
- School of Media and Communication, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, People's Republic of China
| | - Yifan Wang
- School of Media and Communication, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, People's Republic of China
| | - Brian J Hall
- Global and Community Mental Health Research Group, Department of Psychology, University of Macau, Macao, SAR, People's Republic of China
- Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Nan Wu
- Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Meimei Wu
- Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Qishan Ma
- Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- University North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Xing Lv
- Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China.
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7
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Chen M, Bell RA, Barnett GA. From Network Positions to Language Use: Understanding the Effects of Brokerage and Closure Structures from a Linguistic Perspective. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2021; 36:1001-1008. [PMID: 32124649 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2020.1731776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
We investigated cancer survivors' interactions on an online breast cancer support forum, focusing on how the network structures of brokerage and closure relate to the types of support received and to the language used in posts. Data came through the extraction of 1,443 forum members' online networks. Automated linguistic analysis was carried out on the 27,248 threads these survivors made and the 336,151 replies they received. Survivors' brokerage and closure levels were positively correlated with the use of positive affective words in their posts, a linguistic marker of well-being. Different network positions fostered different types of support in the community. Specifically, people bridging unconnected users (the broker role) were more likely to receive informational support whereas people in closely knit groups (the closure role) were more likely to receive emotional support. Theoretical, methodological, and practical implications are examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Chen
- Department of Media Communications, Webster Vienna Private University
| | - Robert A Bell
- Department of Communication, University of California
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8
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The Effect of Group Play Therapy on Anxiety in Children Diagnosed with Leukemia. PREVENTIVE CARE IN NURSING AND MIDWIFERY JOURNAL 2021. [DOI: 10.52547/pcnm.11.2.49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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9
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Mikal JP, Beckstrand MJ, Grande SW, Parks E, Oyenuga M, Odebunmi T, Okedele O, Uchino B, Horvath K. Online Support Seeking and Breast Cancer Patients: Changes in Support Seeking Behavior following Diagnosis and Transition off Cancer Therapy. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2021; 36:731-740. [PMID: 31931628 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2020.1712519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Transitions in breast cancer care are associated with significant increases in stress and anxiety, and this stress can negatively impact mental and physical health. Social support has been shown to alleviate such distress, but whether, how, and how often social support is accessed through existing support networks is unclear. Our study examines changes in social media use following breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, using hand-coded longitudinal data from 30 breast cancer survivors' Facebook pages for the 6 months surrounding cancer diagnosis and for the 6 months surrounding transition off cancer therapy. Results revealed that following diagnosis, there was a significant increase in posting behavior and self-disclosure. However, this increase in posts did not correspond to an increase in support requests. In addition, while participants' primary support requests were for resources, support provided tended to be lower-cost emotional support. Finally, temporal maps indicated that participants started off increasing their engagement but withdrew over time. Our findings suggest that Facebook offered participants a platform for continued social engagement and self-disclosure - but showed several indications that support was principally low-effort, limited quality, and ill-fitting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jude P Mikal
- Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota
| | | | - Stuart W Grande
- Health Policy and Management Division, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota
| | - Elise Parks
- Epidemiology, Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota
| | - Mosunmoluwa Oyenuga
- Epidemiology, Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota
| | - Tolulope Odebunmi
- Epidemiology, Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota
| | - Olasunmbo Okedele
- Epidemiology, Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota
| | | | - Keith Horvath
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University
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Meng J, Rains SA, An Z. How Cancer Patients Benefit from Support Networks Offline and Online: Extending the Model of Structural-to-Functional Support. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2021; 36:198-206. [PMID: 31601113 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2019.1673947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Although social support is an indispensable resource for coping with illness, the connections among the structural properties of one's support network, received social support from offline and online network members, and well-being are not well understood. This study aims to extend the model of structural-to-functional support by distinguishing offline from online support networks and identifying different pathways through which these two networks contribute to patients' emotional well-being. Using data from 386 cancer patients, the results revealed that offline and online support networks were associated with patients' emotional well-being via different types of received support. Specifically, offline support network size was negatively associated with their emotional well-being via informational support received offline. Online support network size was positively associated with their emotional well-being via emotional support received online.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingbo Meng
- Department of Communication, Michigan State University
| | | | - Zheng An
- Department of Communication, University of Hawaii at Hilo
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11
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Kang NE, Kim HY, Kim JY, Kim SR. Relationship between cancer stigma, social support, coping strategies and psychosocial adjustment among breast cancer survivors. J Clin Nurs 2020; 29:4368-4378. [DOI: 10.1111/jocn.15475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- No Eul Kang
- College of Nursing Jeonbuk National University Jeonju South Korea
| | - Hye Young Kim
- College of Nursing Research Institute of Nursing ScienceJeonbuk National University Jeonju South Korea
| | - Ji Young Kim
- College of Nursing Research Institute of Nursing ScienceJeonbuk National University Jeonju South Korea
| | - Sung Reul Kim
- College of Nursing Korea University Seoul South Korea
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12
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Pérez M, Kreuter MW, Yan Y, Thompson T, Sefko J, Golla B, Margenthaler JA, Colditz G, Jeffe DB. Feasibility and Acceptability of an Interactive Cancer-Communication Video Program Using African American Breast Cancer Survivor Stories. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2020; 25:566-575. [PMID: 33048635 PMCID: PMC8043508 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2020.1821132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
To examine the feasibility and acceptability of an interactive video program of African American breast cancer survivor stories, we explored story reactions among African American women with newly diagnosed breast cancer and associations between patient factors and intervention use. During a randomized controlled trial, patients in the intervention arm completed a baseline/pre-intervention interview, received the video intervention, and completed a post-intervention 1-month follow-up interview. Additional video exposures and post-exposure interviews occurred at 6- and 12-month follow-ups. Multivariable linear mixed-effects models examined interview and clinical data in association with changes in minutes and actions using the program. After Exposure1, 104 of 108 patients allocated to the intervention reported moderate-to-high levels of positive emotional reactions to stories and identification with storytellers. Exposure1 mean usage was high (139 minutes) but declined over time (p <.0001). Patients receiving surgery plus radiation logged about 50 more minutes and actions over 12-month follow-up than patients receiving surgery only (p <.05); patients reporting greater trust in storytellers logged 18.6 fewer actions over time (p =.04). Patients' topical interests evolved, with patients watching more follow-up care and survivorship videos at Exposure3. The intervention was feasible and evaluated favorably. New videos might satisfy patients' changing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pérez
- School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Washington
University in St. Louis, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Matthew W. Kreuter
- The Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, Saint
Louis, Missouri, USA
- Alvin J.Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and
Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Yan Yan
- Alvin J.Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and
Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
- School of Medicine, Department of Surgery, Washington
University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Tess Thompson
- The Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, Saint
Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Julianne Sefko
- School of Medicine, Department of Surgery, Washington
University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Balaji Golla
- The Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, Saint
Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Julie A. Margenthaler
- Alvin J.Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and
Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
- School of Medicine, Department of Surgery, Washington
University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Graham Colditz
- Alvin J.Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and
Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
- School of Medicine, Department of Surgery, Washington
University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Donna B. Jeffe
- School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Washington
University in St. Louis, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
- Alvin J.Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and
Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
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13
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Mikal JP, Beckstrand MJ, Parks E, Oyenuga M, Odebunmi T, Okedele O, Uchino B, Horvath K. Online social support among breast cancer patients: longitudinal changes to Facebook use following breast cancer diagnosis and transition off therapy. J Cancer Surviv 2020; 14:322-330. [PMID: 31897878 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-019-00847-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Active social engagement, both on and offline, is widely recognized as an important buffer against the negative effects of cancer-related stress. Nevertheless, studies show that social stigma can lead to a decrease in available social support following cancer diagnosis. This study examines whether Facebook friends provide continuous, health-promoting social support to breast cancer patients following transitions in care. METHODS To examine support provided to breast cancer patients, we hand-coded 21,291 status updates and wall posts with respect to both post content and support exchange. We then use descriptive statistics, pairwise t tests, and temporal maps to show whether posts received more likes, comments, or unique commenters following breast cancer diagnosis and the post content that was most likely to garner positive responses from Facebook friends. RESULTS Results showed an initial increase across all three support metrics (likes, comments, and unique commenters) after cancer diagnosis but that all three metrics decrease steadily over time. Results also revealed significant decreases in the average number of comments and number of commenters following transition off cancer treatment. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, our results reveal that while support is available through Facebook, support may be sporadic, characterized by limited engagement and low cost. There is also limited support available through Facebook to weather the stress of transition off cancer treatment. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Facebook is an important feature in people's lives, particularly among the demographic most impacted by breast cancer. Our results suggest that social media can be useful in accessing support but should be used with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jude P Mikal
- University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| | | | - Elise Parks
- University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | | | | | | | - Bert Uchino
- University of Utah, 201 Presidents Circle, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Keith Horvath
- Psychology Department, California State University, San Diego, California, USA
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Horrell LN, Lazard AJ, Bhowmick A, Hayes S, Mees S, Valle CG. Attracting Users to Online Health Communities: Analysis of LungCancer.net's Facebook Advertisement Campaign Data. J Med Internet Res 2019; 21:e14421. [PMID: 31682589 PMCID: PMC6861997 DOI: 10.2196/14421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With growing numbers of adults turning to the internet to get answers for health-related questions, online communities provide platforms with participatory networks to deliver health information and social support. However, to optimize the benefits of these online communities, these platforms must market effectively to attract new members and promote community growth. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the engagement results of Facebook advertisements designed to increase membership in the LungCancer.net online community. METHODS In the fall of 2017, a series of 5 weeklong Facebook advertisement campaigns were launched targeting adults over the age of 18 years with an interest in lung cancer to increase opt ins to the LungCancer.net community (ie, the number of people who provided their email to join the site). RESULTS The advertisements released during this campaign had a sum reach of 91,835 people, and 863 new members opted into the LungCancer.net community by providing their email address. Females aged 55 to 64 years were the largest population reached by the campaign (31,401/91,835; 34.29%), whereas females aged 65 and older were the largest population who opted into the LungCancer.net community (307/863; 35.57%). A total of US $1742 was invested in the Facebook campaigns, and 863 people opted into LungCancer.net, resulting in a cost of US $2.02 per new member. CONCLUSIONS This research demonstrates the feasibility of using Facebook advertising to promote and grow online health communities. More research is needed to compare the effectiveness of various advertising approaches. Public health professionals should consider Facebook campaigns to effectively connect intended audiences to health information and support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey N Horrell
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Allison J Lazard
- School of Media and Journalism, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Amrita Bhowmick
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Health Union, LLC, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sara Hayes
- Health Union, LLC, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Susan Mees
- Health Union, LLC, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Carmina G Valle
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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15
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Mikal JP, Grande SW, Beckstrand MJ. Codifying Online Social Support for Breast Cancer Patients: Retrospective Qualitative Assessment. J Med Internet Res 2019; 21:e12880. [PMID: 31651404 PMCID: PMC6914235 DOI: 10.2196/12880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social media has emerged as the epicenter for exchanging health-related information, resources, and emotional support. However, despite recognized benefits of social media for advancing health-promoting support exchange, researchers have struggled to differentiate between the different ways social support occurs and is expressed through social media. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to develop a fuller understanding of social support exchange by examining the ways in which breast cancer patients discuss their health needs and reach out for support on Facebook and to develop a coding schema that can be useful to other social media researchers. METHODS We conducted a retrospective qualitative assessment of text-based social support exchanges through Facebook among 30 breast cancer survivors. Facebook wall data were systematically scraped, organized, coded, and characterized by whether and which types of support were exchanged. Research questions focused on how often participants posted related to cancer, how often cancer patients reached out for support, and the relative frequency of informational, instrumental, or socioemotional support requests broadcast by patients on the site. RESULTS A novel ground-up coding schema applied to unwieldy Facebook data successfully identified social support exchange in two critical transitions in cancer treatment: diagnosis and transition off cancer therapy. Explanatory coding, design, and analysis processes led to a novel coding schema informed by 100,000 lines of data, an a priori literature review, and observed online social support exchanges. A final coding schema permits a compelling analysis of support exchange as a type of peer community, where members act proactively to buffer stress effects associated with negative health experiences. The coding schema framed operational definitions of what support meant and the forms each type of support could take in social media spaces. CONCLUSIONS Given the importance of social media in social interaction, support exchange, and health promotion, our findings provide insight and clarity for researchers into the different forms informational, resource, and emotional support may take in Web-based social environments. Findings support broader continuity for evaluating computer-mediated support exchange.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jude P Mikal
- Division of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Stuart W Grande
- Division of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Michael J Beckstrand
- College of Liberal Arts, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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16
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Hu Y, Cheng C, Chee W, Im EO. Issues in internet-based support for chinese-american breast cancer survivors. Inform Health Soc Care 2019; 45:204-216. [DOI: 10.1080/17538157.2019.1624967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yun Hu
- School of Nursing, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
- School of Nursing, Duke University, DURHAM, USA
| | - Chingyu Cheng
- College of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi, Taiwan
| | | | - Eun-Ok Im
- School of Nursing, Duke University, DURHAM, USA
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Moreno MA, D'Angelo J. Social Media Intervention Design: Applying an Affordances Framework. J Med Internet Res 2019; 21:e11014. [PMID: 30912754 PMCID: PMC6454336 DOI: 10.2196/11014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Revised: 12/15/2018] [Accepted: 12/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Social media interventions are a growing area of internet research, particularly for adolescent health. Researchers developing social media intervention approaches face the task of selecting a social media platform for their intervention. In this paper, we present the theoretical framework of affordances to help guide social media platform selection for intervention research. Affordances are a concept often used in fields associated with design and by those systematically studying the impact of a design of an object. Thus, the affordances approach is often used by those considering the impact of information technology and the design of social media platforms. Affordances are often described as properties of artifacts that can be recognized by users and contribute to their function or items that present an action possibility. We describe common affordances that can be applied to intervention design as well as current evidence and an intervention case example for each affordance. A scientific approach for the selection of the appropriate social media platform for a given intervention is an important research priority to advance the field of internet research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan A Moreno
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Jonathan D'Angelo
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
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