Aim: This study evaluated the frequency and the determinants of Internet utilization among cancer patients and their
first-degree relatives in attempt to obtain cancer related information.
Materials and Method: From October 1st, 2003 till December 31st, 2003, 256 patients were asked to complete a
questionnaire regarding their Internet utilization and various sociodemographic features.
Results: There were 139 males and 117 females, with their ages ranging from 18 to 83 years (median, 53 years). There
were 233 literate patients, of whom 78 had a minimum of high school degree. There were 174 patients residing in
metropolitan areas and 156 with regular jobs. There were 46 patients who were computer-literate themselves and 147
who had computer-literate first-degree relatives. There were 135 patients and first-degree relatives with Internet access
at home and 71 with Internet access at work. Ninety-two patients or their first-degree relatives had an attempt to
obtain cancer related information. Of these, 11 patients and 55 first-degree relatives had used Internet as a resource.
Male gender, having a minimum of high school degree, residing in metropolitan areas, having regular jobs and having
Internet access at home or at work were the determinants of Internet utilization in attempt to obtain cancer related
information.
Conclusion: Patients admitting to the Department of Radiation Oncology at Gazi University Faculty of Medicine had a
significantly high Internet utilization in attempt to obtain cancer related information. Radiation oncology facilities
should familiarize themselves with these resources and should attempt to provide relevant, clear and up-to-date
information that patients could readily identify and access.
Key Words: Cancer, Internet, Sociodemographic factors
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