J Thorac Dis. 2026 May 31;18(5):493. doi: 10.21037/jtd-2026-1-0265. Epub 2026 May 27.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Social media is increasingly used by patients, caregivers, and clinicians to access and share cancer-related information. This study examined how individuals use social media for lung cancer education and their preferences.
METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted on Instagram using interactive story features (polls, open-response questions) over three weeks (August to September 2025). Voluntary participation implied consent. Respondents provided demographic data and responses about social media use, content preferences, trust, and impact.
RESULTS: Among 182 respondents, 37% were patients, 31% caregivers, 23% clinicians, and 9% others; most were female (78%), ages 25-44 years (65%) and living in North America (75%). Social media use for lung cancer information was common, particularly on Instagram, with 66% following cancer-related accounts. Respondents preferred content from patients/survivors and practicing clinicians. Short videos/reels, patient stories, and infographics were the most favored formats, with 97% reporting diagrams/animations improved understanding; 93% reported trust in social media content and that posts improved clarity on cancer types and treatments; 70% self-reported that social media influenced a behavior and 67% reported it increased confidence in discussing care. Open response answers highlighted social media as a source of education, hope, peer connection, empowerment, and timely updates, and interest in future content on emerging therapies, conference insights, care navigation, survivorship, and personalized topics.
CONCLUSIONS: Respondents frequently sought information from clinicians, with concise visual formats, and reported tangible benefits for confidence and health behaviors. Social media may offer a scalable platform for delivering real-time education on lung cancer.
PMID:42306715 | PMC:PMC13266880 | DOI:10.21037/jtd-2026-1-0265