Self help discussion groups have traditionally filled this roll, but there are inherent inconveniences and difficulties that come with this type of support, for example mobility. Self help groups must physically meet in a predetermined location, to which some sufferers may have difficulty travelling, especially if they live in rural areas. Another potential problem is that some sufferers may not feel comfortable meeting face to face, and would prefer a more relaxed form of dialogue.

But the rise of the internet has created a completely new way of communicating in the form of online cancer discussion forums. These are websites, or parts of websites, where anyone can post a message and take part in discussions with other members of the forum.

The advantages of are many; for starters anyone with internet access can get involved, so there is no need to travel. Messages (also called posts) are made under a pseudonym so there is no need to reveal your identity, which means that discussion can be frank and users can ask anything about anything, without fear of embarrassment.

Getting involved in online cancer discussion forums is quick and easy. Users simply need to log on to the website, and then sign up to the forum. This normally involves simply creating a username and password for yourself, after which you can use to sign in to the forum and begin posting messages.

Most forums operate a set of rules which are overseen by site moderators to ensure that a safe and supportive environment is maintained. Users are expected to respect the opinions of others, use correct English and avoid attacking other members or using profanities - generally exactly the same etiquette that would be expected if you were talking to a group of people face to face.

Forums are normally divided up into sections based on subjects, and posts can cover all manner of topics allowing members of the community to share stories, support and advice, on anything from dealing with specific types of cancer, cancer in the family, how sufferers can get travel insurance, where to get scarves and bandanas, through to coping with the grief and suffering that cancer can cause. There are also normally less formal sections where the community can just chat about everyday things that don't fit into categories elsewhere on the forum.

Online cancer discussion forums are an excellent place to share stories and get support, and are becoming an increasingly popular part of the cancer community.