Tailoring information for adults over 50 living with cancer in the age of social media: A systematic review

Abstract

Background

Cancer often requires patients to make swift, informed, treatment decisions. Despite their engagement with healthcare providers and digital resources, cancer patients over 50 often experience high levels of unmet information needs during these critical times. However, there is a lack of evidence-based information on their supportive-care information needs.

Objective

To examine cancer patients’ (aged 50 +) information and health literacy needs and their motivations for using social media (i.e Twitter/X, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram) during decision-making.

Methods

A systematic literature review, following the PRISMA guidelines, was conducted using electronic databases (Scopus, Web of Science and PubMed/MEDLINE) and grey literature. All original articles published from January 2002 to October 2023 were extracted and analysed within COVIDENCE and NVIVO14 for themes following narrative and tabular analysis. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment scale.

Results

Of 761 articles identified, six were included. Patients’ health literacy was determined to be moderate to low. At decision-making points, cancer patients over 50 needed personalised, supportive and disease-related information. They preferred holistically tailored information and were satisfied with how their doctors met their needs. Complimentary therapies and dietary recommendations were well received by patients of Chinese, Vietnamese, and Australian backgrounds. Patients over 50 accessed social media throughout their cancer. Although useful for obtaining support and information, social media raised patients’ concern around misinformation.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the importance of meeting the information needs of cancer patients over 50 and incorporating a holistic approach to information delivery. Social media sites targeting consumers can be useful tools for healthcare institutions to supply accurate, user-friendly information.

Trial Registration:

PROSPERO registration number - CRD42022358710