Internet Information for Cancer Patients on Nutritional Behaviour

Peer Reviewed / Manuscript (original) received: 4 November 2022 / Revision accepted: 9 January 2023

An Analysis of German-Speaking Websites

Introduction

According to a survey in Germany, information available online was often rated as helpful by patients and made them feel more empowered to participate in disease-related decisions [1]. It also gave patients the feeling of not being alone with their disease. Patients also stated that the information they found increased their pre-existing uncertainty [1]. When searching for information on the internet, it is important to bear in mind that there are always inaccurate information as well as security and data privacy issues [2]. The quality of online resources is not guaranteed even though quality certificates like HONcode [3] exist. It is up to the patient to differentiate between reputable and unserious sources.

According to a German performance test analysis about searching for cancer-related information on the internet, this is one of the most frequent problems resulting from an online research (95% of the participants) [4]. This problem is of particular importance considering that only few patients (21.3% of the participants) consult their oncologists about the online information they have found [1]. ...

Abstract

The internet is becoming more important as source of health information like the “best” nutritional behaviour for cancer patients. Our aim was to assess the quality of the web-based information.
A laypersons first search for “nutrition in cancer” on German websites was simulated by using the search engines GOOGLE and ECOSIA. The first 20 hits of both search engines were assessed by 4 raters using a standardized instrument for content and formal aspects. The nutritional recommendations were assessed regarding their conformity according to the latest guidelines. They highlight the importance of a balanced nutrition for cancer patients and refer to the 10 Guidelines of the German Nutrition Society (DGE) for a Wholesome Diet.
The assessment of 40 websites revealed that websites of professional associations and websites from non-profit organisations in contrast to profit organisations offered good content and formal quality. They provide nutritional recommendations that are consistent with the latest guidelines. There were substantial differences between the nutritional recommendations published on the websites of self-help groups and the recommendations of the DGE. A statement about the quality of the nutritional recommendations based on form and content quality is not possible.
The quality of online information on nutritional behaviour for cancer patients is heterogeneous. As patients have difficulty in assessing the quality of information, this can cause major problems when the Internet becomes an essential source of information. The patients' recognition of evidence-based recommendations needs to be improved. A critical examination is necessary.

Keywords: cancer patient, nutrition recommendations; internet, nutrition information; nutrition education

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