An exploratory study in breast cancer of factors involved in the use and communication with health professionals of Internet information.

Objective: To study the impact of the spontaneous use of Internet on breast cancer patients and on their relationship with health professionals.

Methods: A mixed methodology was used. Two questionnaires were designed through three focus groups, and then administered to 186 patients and 59 professionals in order to assess: (1) patients' use of Internet for health-related information and (2) the impact of this information on patients' psychological outcomes and on their relationship with professionals.