The Experience of Young Adult Cancer Patients Described Through Online Narratives

Abstract

Blogs can be particularly helpful when patients are isolated or physically unable to interact with other people because of treatment requirements or physical deterioration.Future studies should investigate other types of Internet cancer communities and how they can benefit the development of Internet-based support networks for YAACs.

The Adolescent and Young Adult with Cancer: A Developmental Life Course Perspective

“…Cancer and its treatment can impede cognitive maturation and performance for young adults (aged 20-29 years) 23 and thus capacity to make complex medical decisions, perform at school or work, and achieve vocational goals. 6 The gravity of a cancer diagnosis, uncertainty about the future, and low energy levels can thwart planning related to vocational goals.…”

Use and Taxonomy of Social Media in Cancer-Related Research: A Systematic Review

“…8–45 Beginning in 2008, 46 researchers also began analyzing the use and content of blogs and blog responses, often examining reasons for and benefits of blogging during cancer treatment and survivorship (n = 7; 10.1%). 46–52 Published studies also specifically addressed cancer-related use of video-sharing sites such as YouTube (n = 5; 7.2%), 53–57 and social networking sites such as Facebook (n = 8; 11.6%). 58–65 …”

Gender Differences Among Young Adult Cancer Patients

“…In Part 1, findings showed a rich description of the lived experiences of YAACs while exploring their unique needs and difficulties associated with their transition from adolescence to adulthood. 4 Part 1 also reported that blogs provide an environment where YAACs can express their emotions with fewer inhibitions. 4 This article, Part 2, examines whether there is a gender-based difference influencing the expression of experiences and emotions when blogs are used.…”

“…4 Part 1 also reported that blogs provide an environment where YAACs can express their emotions with fewer inhibitions. 4 This article, Part 2, examines whether there is a gender-based difference influencing the expression of experiences and emotions when blogs are used. Numerous psychosocial oncology research studies have investigated how gender affects cancer patients' experiences.…”