TOWARDS QUALITY OF LIFE: EXPERIENCES AND HEALTH-BEHAVIOR CHANGE IN CHRONIC AND ONCOLOGICAL PATIENTS IN VIRTUAL COMMUNITIES

Chronic diseases present significant challenges due to their unpredictable nature, often causing stress and social exclusion, particularly for those with limited support. However, a health condition doesn't change the patient's need to remain an active part of society. Lifestyle modifications, alongside online support, promise to enhance their quality of life. This qualitative study explores chronic disease patients' views on using virtual communities and blogs for health behaviour change and overall well-being. An anonymous survey was conducted among 26 Spanish-speaking participants, mainly aged over 40, divided into two groups: one using an online blog and the other both a blog and virtual community. Participants shared experiences, revealing positive impacts on disease management through thematic and content analysis. Findings highlight virtual communities' potential to empower chronic patients, improving their quality of life. Positive effects, like heightened emotional engagement and effective information dissemination, underscore the importance of integrating virtual platforms into disease management. Moreover, recognizing the psychosocial dimensions of chronic illness emphasizes the need for holistic approaches, emphasizing personal human capital and social networks. This perspective offers valuable insights, informing new strategies in public health policies and clinical interventions by considering psychosocial aspects in chronic disease management and support program design.