Aim
People diagnosed with cancer are frequently unaware of their risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), and don’t know how to manage this risk. Resources to assist them are limited. We aimed to codesign and test the usability of a patient-facing website to guide risk-reduction.
Methods
Using codesign methodology, we conducted two rounds of online and face-to-face focus groups and interviews to seek patients’ and cancer-care providers’ preferences for content, format, navigation and user-interaction of the website. In Round 1, a researcher-developed and evidence-informed wireframe facilitated participant feedback, which in turn informed the development of a prototype for further feedback in Round 2. Audio-recordings and field-notes, and researcher discussion guided website revisions. In collaboration with website-developers, the ‘My Heart & Cancer’ website was developed. For usability testing, we will use the ‘Think Aloud’ technique, where participants verbalise perceptions during website use.
Results
In Round 1, 16 participants contributed preferences including the importance of including pictures and videos, simple language, and brevity of information but with options for detail. In Round 2, 10 participants expressed they generally found the website fit-for-purpose and comprehensive. They made suggestions for minor changes, e.g., further simplification, and ‘takeaway points’ sections. The revised website is simple, easy-to-navigate and guides users via text, pictures, videos, activities and links. It consists of 6 main sections: CVD risk information, assessment, symptoms, self-management, healthcare and services; with sub-sections providing more guidance and interactive activities to encourage risk reduction behaviours including physical activity and quitting smoking. It is anticipated users will find the website usable, and feedback will inform further improvements.
Conclusions
The ‘My Heart & Cancer’ website is a novel resource to support patients at risk of CVD in cancer. The website will be tested for feasibility and effectiveness before routine adoption.