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Theory-Based Evaluation of an Online Cancer Fatigue Class

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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.

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Acknowledgements

The authors would like to acknowledge the efforts Scott Weimer, who facilitated the focus groups, and Terri Ades, for assuring the medical accuracy of class content. This study was supported by intramural research funding from the American Cancer Society.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Behavioral Research Center, American Cancer Society, 250 Williams Street NW, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA

    Tenbroeck Smith, Corinne Crammer & Kevin D. Stein

  2. Health Promotions, American Cancer Society, 250 Williams Street NW, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA

    Kristi Richardson & Greta Greer

  3. Statistics and Evaluation Center, American Cancer Society, 250 Williams Street NW, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA

    C. Christina Mehta & James L. Kepner

Authors
  1. Tenbroeck Smith
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  2. Kristi Richardson
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  3. Corinne Crammer
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  4. Greta Greer
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  5. Kevin D. Stein
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  6. C. Christina Mehta
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  7. James L. Kepner
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Correspondence to Tenbroeck Smith.

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Smith, T., Richardson, K., Crammer, C. et al. Theory-Based Evaluation of an Online Cancer Fatigue Class. J Canc Educ 25, 422–430 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13187-010-0067-0

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