Feasibility of Breast Cancer Epidemiology on the Internet
Abstract
The revolution in information technology is demonstrated by the dramatic increase in use of the Intenet. Use of email and the World Wide Web (WWW) have become commonplace, potentially linking tens of millions of people worldwide. While the WWW has been embraced as a means for information dissemination, its use in an epidemiologic context is in its infancy. The survey capabilities of the WWW suggest the possibility of cost efficient data collection from large numbers of people. The Epidemiologic Cyberspace Cohort Study is examining the feasibility of enrolling and following participants for a cohort study of diet, other factors, and breast cancer and other chronic diseases. Feasibility will be determined by: the number and demographic profile of study participants; the stability and use of email addresses for follow-up; and validity of responses. Technical aspects of feasibility include assurance of confidentiality, design of user-friendly survey forms, use of incentives for participation, and methods for data capture and tracking of participants. ECCSite!, the website of the Epidemiologic Cyberspace Cohort Study, was launched on June 6, 1997 (URL: http://epihub.epi.umn.edu/-health_ survey/health_survey.htp). Through July 30, 580 participants had enrolled in the study. If feasibility of the WWW for collecting data and for short-term follow-up is demonstrated, this should provide a basis for conducting large, timely, and cost- efficient prospective cohort studies.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA332473
Entities
People
- Lawrence H. Kushi
Organizations
- University of Minnesota