Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This review examines how virtual communities support patients with lung cancer, focusing on their effectiveness in improving emotional wellbeing and treatment adherence, and addressing challenges like misinformation and privacy. METHODS: A scoping review was conducted using PubMed, CNKI, and Web of Science. Inclusion criteria included patients with lung cancer aged ≥18, virtual community interventions, and original research in Chinese or English. Studies were screened and appraised independently. RESULTS: Nineteen studies (2015-2024) showed that apps and websites were key platforms, offering information, emotional support, and social interaction. These communities reduced anxiety, improved treatment compliance, but did not affect survival rates. Misinformation and privacy were concerns. CONCLUSIONS: Virtual communities significantly benefit patients with lung cancer psychologically and socially, but not in survival. Future research should address diversity, longitudinal designs, and platform optimization to reduce risks.