Understanding Cancer Information Repertoires of Relatives and Patients

When seeking cancer information, individuals combine various sources. To better understand multiple source use on the part of cancer patients and relatives, we examined their cancer information repertoires (CIRs) by applying the concept of media repertoires to cancer-information-seeking behaviour (CISB). We also aimed to characterise them using factors that influence CISB that have been identified in the literature. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 1,084 German cancer patients and their relatives via an online access panel. Based on a hierarchical cluster analysis, we identified five CIRs: expert-focused responsibility delegators, occasional online seekers, communicative allrounders, non-seekers, and safety-focused seekers. The data show that these types differed in terms of age, gender, cancer diagnosis, familial cancer risk, perceived severity, and information interest. The findings demonstrate that different subgroups prefer different combinations of sources, ranging from broad engagement to limited or targeted use. These insights are highly relevant to the design of tailored communication strategies. To effectively reach diverse audiences, cancer information efforts should combine multiple sources, including health professionals, high-quality online services, and informal networks such as family and friends.