The activist cancer patient impact in the health ecosystem

Abstract

Through independent initiatives, patients present themselves in three different behavioral groups: captives, phlegmatic and activists. The activist cancer patients and their projects have an impact on other patients, throughout the health system, professionals and on the public awareness. The participation of activist patients in initiatives such as content microchannels in social media, campaigns and NGO is essential for awareness, as
long as they offer representativeness and responsibility. Patient activism is not linked to a specific profile, but to a great desire to connect with others who are experiencing similar experiences or difficulties. Patient activism can be seen as a recurring activity, volunteering and the desire to build behavioral changes. The biographies and projects of activist patients, rather than being understood as lives of sick people, break the stereotype and are transformed into a legacy, in which the patients play the leading role by sharing their experience. It is crucial to start new dialogues pertaining to the relationship between health professionals and their patients, as well as stimulate responsibility of activist patients towards their audiences.