From Screens to Stress: Public Health Implications of Cancer Worry in a Digitally Connected World

Aims:This study examines how digital information environments, genetic testing experiences, health behaviors, and psychological distress influence cancer-related worry among adults in the United States. It further considers the public health implications of elevated or reduced cancer worry for prevention and risk communication. Methods:Data were drawn from a nationally representative survey of 6,252 U.S. adults. Measures included reliance on social media for health decision-making, smoking status, history of genetic testing, and psychological distress. Multivariable analyses assessed associations between these factors and levels of cancer worry. Results/Findings:Reliance on social media for health decisions was associated with greater cancer worry, indicating that exposure to misinformation or amplified risk cues may heighten anxiety. Smoking was also linked to increased worry, consistent with higher perceived vulnerability. In contrast, individuals who had undergone genetic testing reported lower cancer worry, suggesting that structured risk information can reduce uncertainty. Psychological distress emerged as the strongest predictor of extreme cancer worry, highlighting the central role of mental health in shaping risk perceptions. Conclusions:Cancer worry is influenced by the interaction of digital information sources, behavioral risk factors, and psychological distress. Public health efforts should focus on strengthening digital health literacy, countering online misinformation, and incorporating mental health assessment into cancer prevention and communication strategies. These approaches may help support balanced risk appraisal and reduce unnecessary distress in the population.