Research Shows Most Cancer Patients Encounter Misinformation and Testing Strategies to Guide Them Toward Accurate Information

A recent study conducted by UF Health Cancer Center reveals that a staggering 93% of individuals recently diagnosed with cancer have been exposed to at least one form of misinformation related to cancer treatments. This misinformation includes unproven therapies, myths, and misconceptions about the efficacy and safety of various treatments. Importantly, many patients encountered such false information not by actively seeking it, but through secondhand sources like friends, family, social media, and news outlets.

The study, published in the Journal of Cancer Education, highlights a critical challenge in oncology: the widespread influence of misinformation can significantly impact treatment decisions, doctor-patient relationships, and even patient outcomes. As cancer diagnosis often generates intense anxiety and a flood of new, complex information, patients are especially vulnerable to false claims—such as the misconception that vitamin C cures cancer, which is unsupported by scientific evidence.

Researchers employed a comprehensive survey of 110 patients diagnosed with cancers including prostate, breast, colorectal, and lung cancers within the past six months—an essential period when initial treatment choices are made. They identified five key categories of misinformation: vitamins and minerals, herbs and supplements, special diets, mind-body interventions, and miscellaneous treatments, along with common misconceptions like sugar fueling cancer.

A significant finding was the primary source of misinformation: secondhand exposure via social networks and media rather than active searches by patients. Dr. Naomi Parker, the lead author, explained that algorithms, social circles, and media exposure—often unrelated to the patient's direct searches—contribute to this phenomenon.

Given these insights, clinicians are urged to assume their patients have encountered misinformation and to proactively discuss and correct false beliefs. As Dr. Carma Bylund emphasizes, an 'information prescription'—directing patients toward reliable, evidence-based sources like the American Cancer Society—is a promising strategy. This approach aims to combat misinformation's negative effects, such as treatment delays or refusal of proven therapies.

The study underscores the importance of healthcare professionals acknowledging the prevalence of misinformation and adopting strategies to guide patients toward factual information. Future research will explore broader patient surveys and evaluate interventions designed to reduce misinformation exposure, ultimately aiming to improve treatment adherence and patient outcomes.

This research highlights the urgent need to address health misinformation in cancer care and develop effective communication tools to support informed decision-making.

source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-cancer-patients-exposed-misinformation-facts.html