SUPPORT GROUPS FOR CANCER CARERS: A QUALITATIVE EVALUATION

Abstract

A cancer diagnosis takes a great toll on the health of both patients and their carers. Online cancer support groups, including cancer support Facebook groups, have evolved as new sources of support for cancer patients and their carers. However, little is known about how cancer carers make use of such online resources. Most research attention has been paid to Facebook support groups for cancer patients. This research is designed to determine the content of communication in Ovarian Facebook pages, and the impact of those communications on carers of ovarian cancer patients. The study will contribute to knowledge about how cancer patients’ carers use Facebook cancer support groups and the impact of this use on their health and quality of life