Theory-based evaluation of an online cancer fatigue class

J Cancer Educ. 2010 Sep;25(3):422-30. doi: 10.1007/s13187-010-0067-0.

Abstract

Fatigue is a common problem faced by cancer patients and survivors, yet is often overlooked. An online fatigue class is evaluated using measures based on the Health Belief Model (HBM). A sample of 26 survivors and seven caregivers completed pre-class and post-class surveys and a facilitated discussion. Statistically significant improvements were detected in both the fatigue knowledge (p < 0.001) and belief (p < 0.001) scores. Participants reported that the content was accessible and useful. The class had a positive impact on their knowledge and beliefs about cancer fatigue. This suggests that HBM may be an appropriate framework for the evaluation of Internet-based educational interventions.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Caregivers / psychology*
  • Culture
  • Fatigue / etiology*
  • Fatigue / prevention & control
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Health Surveys
  • Humans
  • Internet / organization & administration*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Models, Psychological*
  • Neoplasms / complications*
  • Neoplasms / prevention & control
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Survivors / psychology*