Linking internet health information seeking to psychological distress among Chinese adults with a family cancer history: The attenuating role of patient–clinician communication of internet searches

The psychological distress faced by individuals with a family cancer history (FCH) has emerged as a significant concern. This study examined the relationship between Internet health information seeking (IHIS) and psychological distress, focusing on the mediating roles of cancer information overload and cancer worry and the moderating role of patient–clinician communication of Internet searches. In 2023, a nationally representative online survey was conducted. This research encompassed a cohort of 580 Chinese adults with FCH and no personal cancer history. Moderated mediation analysis was employed. IHIS was not directly associated with psychological distress. However, it increased cancer information overload and cancer worry, which in turn exacerbated psychological distress. In addition, among people who discussed their online searches with healthcare providers, the positive association between IHIS and cancer information overload became nonsignificant. The current study elucidates a mediation mechanism of cancer information overload and cancer worry in understanding the association between IHIS and psychological distress among individuals with FCH. Patient–clinician communication serves a prophylactic role by attenuating these adverse effects . Encouraging patient–clinician dialogues about Internet health information may be promising in curbing cancer information overload. Healthcare providers should proactively engage in such discussions to support patients’ psychological health . • In China, people with a family cancer history (FCH) face significant psychological distress. • Our research examined the association between Internet health information seeking (IHIS) and the psychological distress of Chinese people with FCH. • IHIS increased cancer information overload and cancer worry, which subsequently heightened the psychological distress. • Patient–clinician communication of Internet searches attenuated the indirect relationships between IHIS and psychological distress. • Medical communication should respond to patients’ inquiries and concerns on Internet information to support their psychological health.