Online breast cancer surgery information too difficult to understand

Editor's Note

Online breast cancer surgery information is often difficult to understand and may be impeding people’s ability to make informed decisions about their care, US News October 25 reports.

Researchers reviewed patient education materials describing breast-conserving surgery, mastectomy, and lymph node surgery from US National Cancer Institute related websites for readability. They found that the average readability score of these materials was above the 11th-grade reading level, far higher than National Institutes of Health recommendations, which is 6th or 7th grade reading levels. 

They also found that 19% of US adults have low literacy skills. The researchers advise that these materials be updated, using social media presentation as a guide, to improve access and understanding. 

Ultimately, say the researchers, patients must also talk with their providers and ask questions in order to receive the best guidance and turn to sources attached to cancer centers and medical centers.