Description, characterization, and evaluation of an online social networking community: the American Cancer Society ’s Cancer Survivors Network®

ConclusionsThe volume of CSN traffic suggests high demand among cancer survivors and caregivers for informational and/or emotional support from other cancer survivors and caregivers. CSN may be particularly beneficial for individuals with rare cancers. Furthermore, this study documents a group of individuals whose cancer experience is multifaceted (e.g., survivors became caregivers or vice versa), and for whom CSN has the capacity to provide support at multiple points during their cancer experiences.Implications for Cancer SurvivorsCSN is a free, internet-based social networking site available to all cancer survivors and caregivers, worldwide. Evaluation of the site is ongoing and will be used to inform improvements to usability, reach, recruitment, retention, and potential health impact(s) of this valuable resource.
Source: Journal of Cancer Survivorship - Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: research