The Internet provides a new modality for health communication by facilitating the creation of virtual communities. These communities have the potential to influence health behavior beyond traditional FTF support groups. This study utilized content analysis of 1,424 e-mail messages posted to 2 online cancer communities to examine uses of these groups. Findings revealed (a) similarities in the content of communication in the 2 virtual communities, (b) gender differences in participation, and (c) differences in utilization of these online groups between patients and family members. These results are discussed in light of the diverse uses of online cancer communities that they reveal, the role of family members in support seeking and provision, and gender communication styles in health computer-mediated communication.
The underrepresentation of ethnically diverse populations in cancer
clinical trials results in the inequitable distribution of the risks and
benefits of this research. Using a case study approach, we apply a conceptual
framework of factors associated with the participation of diverse population
groups in cancer clinical trials developed by Dr. Jean Ford and colleagues to
increase understanding of the specific strategies, and barriers and promoters
addressed by these strategies, that resulted in marked success in accrual of
racially and ethnically diverse populations in cancer clinical research. Results
indicate that the studies presented were able to successfully engage minority
participants due to the creation and implementation of multi-level, multifaceted
strategies that included: culturally and linguistically appropriate outreach,
education, and research studies that were accessible in local communities;
infrastructure to support engagement of key stakeholders, clinicians, and
organizations serving minority communities; testimonials by ethnically diverse
cancer survivors; availability of medical interpretation services; and providing
infrastructure that facilitated the engagement in clinical research of
clinicians who care for minority patient populations. These strategic efforts
were effective in addressing limited awareness of trials, lack of opportunities
to participate, and acceptance of engagement in cancer clinical trials. Careful
attention to the context and population characteristics in which cancer clinical
trials are conducted will be necessary to address disparities in research
participation and cancer outcomes. These studies illustrate that progress on
minority accrual into clinical research requires intentional efforts to overcome
barriers at all three stages of the accrual process: awareness, opportunity and
acceptance of participation.
Low-income Hispanics are the most digitally underserved population in the U.S. This article examines the potential of community-based participatory research approach to e-health to decrease the disparities in access to technology and health information in low-income Hispanic communities. To demonstrate this framework, we describe the process of designing a community-based e-health intervention to increase knowledge and parental self-efficacy in coping with young children's mental health problems including mental health service utilization. Our model incorporates utilizing promotoras de salud (lay community health educators) and community media principles to create the content of e-health interventionsand train community members in using the technology. This case study illustrates the processes involved in using this approach, barriers for participatory e-health interventions in bridging the Digital Divide, and lessons learned.
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