Abstract 555P
Background
Understanding how cancer patients and their caregivers acquire knowledge about cancer management is crucial for healthcare providers to deliver effective patient education and support, given the generally low health literacy levels in Hong Kong.
Methods
This cross-sessional study used an online survey distributed to different cancer groups and out-patient clinics under Hospital Authority in Hong Kong in January 2024. The survey examined the sources of cancer-related information used by participants and the challenges they faced in accessing reliable resources.
Results
A total of 802 patients and caregivers participated in the study (patients: n=472, 58.9%), with 749 participants (93.4%) diagnosed with cancer for over 6 months. The key sources of cancer-related information used by the participants were local websites (n=485, 60.5%), YouTube (n=306, 38.2%), and international websites (n=232, 28.9%). 363 participants (45.3%) relied solely on healthcare professionals without seeking information from other sources, while 374 participants (46.6%) obtained information from friends/relatives. Respondents expressed concerns about information accuracy and trustworthiness (n=574, 71.6%), suitability for their condition (n=492, 61.3%), and accessing comprehensive local cancer data (n=469, 58.5%). Despite challenges, 98.4% believed acquiring more knowledge would improve cancer management.
Conclusions
Healthcare providers should leverage diverse channels, including online and social media, to ensure accessible and reliable cancer information. Improving content comprehensibility and trustworthiness is crucial to empower individuals to make informed decisions and actively participate in their care.
Clinical trial identification
Editorial acknowledgement
Legal entity responsible for the study
The authors.
Funding
Has not received any funding.
Disclosure
All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.