Study Purpose/Description
Good nutrition plays an important role during and after cancer treatment, yet many people find it difficult to access clear, trustworthy and personalised information. People may experience treatment side effects that affect appetite, taste, digestion, or ability to eat, and many also search online for advice – often finding information that is confusing, conflicting, or not evidence‑based.
This study aims to better understand the nutrition and lifestyle information needs of people living with and beyond cancer, as well as their carers. Researchers from the University of Newcastle want to learn:
- what types of nutrition information people consider most important
- which topics cause the most uncertainty
- how people prefer to receive information (for example, online, printed, or through a health professional)
- what challenges they experience when eating during treatment or recovery
- how confident they feel finding reliable information on the internet (eHealth literacy)
- how cancer‑related side effects impact eating habits and food choices
- what gaps exist in current nutrition support
By gathering these insights directly from people affected by cancer, the research team hopes to guide the development of clearer, more practical and accessible nutrition resources. These findings will help ensure that future nutrition information is shaped by real‑life needs, preferences and experiences within the cancer community.
What’s Involved?
- You will first complete a short online screening questionnaire (3 questions, less than 5 minutes).
- If eligible, you will be invited to give consent online and then complete a 20‑minute anonymous survey.
- You can complete the survey in multiple sittings and on any device.
- You will be asked about:
- the types of nutrition information you have received during your cancer journey
- your experiences finding and using nutrition information
- any cancer‑related side effects that have affected your eating
- your eating habits and dietary choices
- where you prefer to access nutrition information
- your level of confidence using online health information (eHealth literacy)
- lifestyle factors relevant to health and wellbeing
- No appointments, interviews, or follow‑ups are required.
Want to learn more?
- Complete a screening survey link
- Email the researchers at traceresearch@newcastle.edu.au
Research Ethics Approval
HREC Committee Name: University of Newcastle HREC
Approval Number: H-2025-0081
