Online information for spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) survivors and their families: A systematic appraisal of content and quality of websites

Joseph Weddell*, Danielle Jawad, Thomas Buckley, Julie Redfern, Zarin Mansur, Natalie Elliott, Coral L. Hanson, Robyn Gallagher

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articleResearchpeer-review

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Abstract

Background: 

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) survivors often seek information online. However, the quality and content of websites for SCAD survivors is uncertain. This review aimed to systematically identify and appraise websites for SCAD survivors. 

Methods: 

A systematic review approach was adapted for websites. A comprehensive search of SCAD key-phrases was performed using an internet search engine during January 2023. Websites targeting SCAD survivors were included. Websites were appraised for quality using Quality Component Scoring System (QCSS) and Health Related Website Evaluation Form (HRWEF), suitability using the Suitability Assessment Method (SAM), readability using a readability generator, and interactivity. Content was appraised using a tool based on SCAD international consensus literature. Raw scores from tools were concerted to percentages, then classified variably as excellent through to poor. 

Results: 

A total of 50 websites were identified and included from 600 screened. Overall, content accuracy/scope (53.3 ± 23.3) and interactivity (67.1 ± 11.5) were poor, quality was fair (59.1 ± 22.3, QCSS) and average (83.1 ± 5.8, HRWEF) and suitability was adequate (54.9 ± 13.8, SAM). The mean readability grade was 11.6 (±2.3), far exceeding the recommendations of ≤ 8. By website type, survivor affiliated and medically peer-reviewed health information websites scored highest. Appraisal tools had limitations, such as overlapping appraisal of similar things and less relevant items due to internet modernity. 

Conclusion:

Many online websites are available for SCAD survivors, but often have limited and/or inaccurate content, poor quality, are not tailored to the demographic, and are difficult to read. Appraisal tools for health website require consolidation and further development.

Original languageEnglish
Article number105372
Pages (from-to)1-15
Number of pages15
JournalInternational Journal of Medical Informatics
Volume184
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Apr 2024
Externally publishedYes

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