50524 Facebook groups provide support and product recommendations for patients using scalp cooling to prevent chemotherapy-induced alopecia: A survey study
Recommended Citation
Rose L, Novice M, Minta A, Novice T, Dulmage B. 50524 Facebook groups provide support and product recommendations for patients using scalp cooling to prevent chemotherapy-induced alopecia: A survey study. J Am Acad Dermatol 2024; 91(3):AB45.
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Publication Date
9-1-2024
Publication Title
J Am Acad Dermatol
Abstract
Patients diagnosed with cancer may turn to social media platforms while navigating their diagnosis. Since the invention of scalp cooling for the prevention of chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA), multiple Facebook groups for interested patients have emerged. With an average of ten daily posts, there is strong evidence of member engagement. Still, it is unclear how members are specifically using these Facebook groups. A 23-question survey was posted in four scalp cooling and cold cap Facebook groups. Of the 152 women who participated, 88% joined for support from others going through a similar experience, 83% wanted scalp cooling instructions, 60% sought out advice for hair regrowth products, and 49% pursued hair loss camouflaging recommendations. Based on Facebook reviews, participants were most likely to have tried hair loss vitamins or supplements (20%), wigs or hair pieces (19%), and Toppik (17%). Interestingly, despite seeking out hair regrowth product information in Facebook groups, merely 5% of patients had seen a dermatologist for hair loss concerns. For eyebrow and eyelash loss product recommendations, participants were more likely to turn to Facebook groups (72%), oncologists (6%), or dermatologists (4%). This survey demonstrates that Facebook groups have a clear role in influencing treatment decisions in patients who have scalp cooled. As patients with CIA express a growing interest in over-the-counter hair, eyebrow, and eyelash loss products, it is important for dermatologists to be aware of where their patients obtain recommendations, and further, if these recommendations have clinical evidence of efficacy.
Volume
91
Issue
3
First Page
AB45
