Current insights on social media as a tool for the dissemination of research and education in surgery: a narrative review.

The purpose of our narrative review is to summarize the utilization of social media (SoMe) platforms for research communication within the field of surgery. We searched the PubMed database for articles in the last decade that discuss the utilization of SoMe in surgery and then categorized the diverse purposes of SoMe. SoMe proved to be a powerful tool for disseminating articles. Employing strategic methods like visual abstracts enhances article citation rates, the impact factor, h-index, and Altmetric score (an emerging alternative metric that comprehensively and instantly quantifies the social impact of scientific papers). SoMe also proved valuable for surgical education, with online videos shared widely for surgical training. However, it is essential to acknowledge the associated risk of inconsistency in quality. Moreover, SoMe facilitates discussion on specific topics through hashtags or closed groups and is instrumental in recruiting surgeons, with over half of general surgery residency programs in the US efficiently leveraging these platforms to attract the attention of potential candidates. Thus, there is a wealth of evidence supporting the effective use of SoMe for surgeons. In the contemporary era where SoMe is widely utilized, surgeons should be well-versed in this evidence.

YouTube as a possible learning platform for patients and their family caregivers for gastrostomy tube feeding: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Many patients and family caregivers have informational needs, especially regarding gastrostomy care and home gastrostomy tube feeding. YouTube is a potential accessible option for educational resources concerning these topics. METHODS: This study aimed to explore the educational quality and content of informational YouTube videos. We used "gastrostomy," "G-tube," "enteral feeding," and "enteral nutrition," as search keywords on YouTube on October 3, 2021. A total of 229 videos were evaluated using the global quality scale (GQS) and modified DISCERN scoring system. Variables extracted from the videos included general features, video parameters, and content themes. RESULTS: The GQS and modified DISCERN scores were 3.31 ± 0.90 and 2.63 ± 1.23, respectively. There were educational quality and differences among videos uploaded by various agencies. Frequent video content themes included "cleaning and dressing a gastrostomy tube," "bolus method," and "replacing a balloon-type of gastrostomy tube." CONCLUSION: Results showed that YouTube can be a supplemental educational resource for people requiring gastrostomy care and for their caregivers. However, given the open-access nature of YouTube, healthcare professionals' guidance is needed for video selection. Healthcare professionals should know and use specific, reliable resources to effectively guide and educate patients with gastrostomy and their caregivers, enhancing their self-management skills and knowledge.

YouTube™ Videos as a Source of Information on Necrotizing Gingivitis: A Content-Quality Analysis.

Background This study aims to evaluate the quality, reliability, and content of the information provided in YouTube™ videos on necrotizing gingivitis (NG), demonstrate the effectiveness of the videos for patients, and help dentists use this platform as a resource to properly guide their patients. Methodology This cross-sectional study was conducted by two experienced periodontologists. They began the study by searching for YouTube™ videos using the keywords "necrotizing gingivitis" and "trench mouth." Descriptive parameters such as the source of upload, country of origin, duration, upload date, number of likes, dislikes, views, and comments were evaluated. After this initial evaluation, the viewing rate and interaction index were calculated. Videos were categorized into high content (HC) and low content (LC) based on a 7-point scale. The quality of video content was assessed using the Global Quality Scale (GQS) and the Video Information and Quality Index (VIQI). The data were analyzed using various statistical tests, with a significance level set at p<0.05. Results Initially, 148 videos were screened, and 50 videos on NG that met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Out of the 50 videos, 28 (56%) were uploaded by healthcare professionals. Overall, 68% of videos (n=34) were classified as HC and 32% (n=16) as LC. The most common topic was clinical symptoms and signs of NG, with 86% (n=43), while NG prevention was the least common topic, with 26% (n=13). Statistically significant differences were found between video duration, time since upload, and VIQI scores according to TCS scores (p<0.05). Video duration and VIQI scores were higher for HC videos compared to LC videos. The time since upload for LC videos was higher than for HC videos. Positive correlations were observed between TCS scores, video duration, and VIQI, as well as between GQS scores, video duration, viewing rate, and VIQI. Conclusions The majority of NG videos on YouTube™ are useful and comprehensive, but their number is insufficient. Poor-quality and inadequate videos may mislead practitioners and patients. However, this also presents an opportunity for healthcare professionals to leverage YouTube™ as an educational tool. Periodontologists should upload more comprehensive videos and play a more active role in providing high-quality information.

Quality controlled YouTube content intervention for enhancing health literacy and health behavioural intention: A randomized controlled study.

Background: Individuals increasingly turn to the Internet for health information, with YouTube being a prominent source. However, the quality and reliability of the health information vary widely, potentially affecting health literacy and behavioural intentions. Methods: To analyse the impact of health information quality on health literacy and behavioural intention, we conducted a randomized controlled trial using a quality-controlled YouTube intervention. Health information quality on YouTube was evaluated using the Global Quality Score and DISCERN. We randomly allocated (1 : 1) to the intervention group to watch the highest quality-evaluated content and to the control group to watch the lowest quality-evaluated content. Health literacy and health behavioural intention were assessed before and after watching YouTube. The trial was set for two different topics: interpreting laboratory test results from health check-up and information about inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Results: From 8 April 2022 to 15 April 2022, 505 participants were randomly assigned to watch either high-quality content (intervention group, n = 255) or low-quality content (control group, n = 250). Health literacy significantly improved in the intervention group (28.1 before and 31.8 after; p < 0.01 for health check-up; 28.3 before and 31.3 after; p < 0.01 for IBD). Health behavioural intention significantly improved in the intervention group (3.5 before and 4.1 after; p < 0.01 for health check-up; 3.6 before and 4.0 after; p < 0.01 for IBD). Control groups had no such effect. Conclusion: High-quality health information can enhance health literacy and behavioural intention in both healthy individuals and those with specific conditions like IBD. It stresses the significance of ensuring reliable health information online and calls for future efforts to curate and provide access to high-quality health content.

Online video resources pertaining to cerebral palsy: A YouTube-based quality control study.

Aim: To assess the content and quality of YouTube videos related to cerebral palsy to provide insights into the online video resources available for individuals affected by cerebral palsy and suggest strategies for improvement. Methods: YouTube videos were analyzed based on interaction parameters, content characteristics/category, and video source. Video reliability and quality were assessed using the Journal of American Medical Association benchmark, Global Quality Scale, and cerebral palsy-specific score. Statistical analyses examined associations between video characteristics and reliability/quality scores. Results: The average video (n = 48) length was 6.8 min, with 29 informational and 19 experiential videos. The mean Journal of American Medical Association score was 2.0, indicating moderate reliability. The Global Quality Scale suggested good quality content (average: 3.5), but only 14% were rated as good via cerebral palsy-specific score. Higher views were associated with higher Journal of American Medical Association score and cerebral palsy-specific score (p = 0.002 and p = 0.006), and nonphysician medical expert videos had lower Journal of American Medical Association scores than academic videos (p = 0.042). Video content was not significantly associated with either score. Conclusion: YouTube provides moderate to good quality information on cerebral palsy. Critical evaluation of video sources and content is essential. Findings can guide strategies to enhance the quality of cerebral palsy-related YouTube content, benefiting individuals with cerebral palsy, health care providers, and caregivers.

Trends of fear and anger on YouTube during the initial stage of the COVID-19 outbreak in South Korea.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has been the most widespread and threatening health crisis experienced by the Korean society. Faced with an unprecedented threat to survival, society has been gripped by social fear and anger, questioning the culpability of this pandemic. This study explored the correlation between social cognitions and negative emotions and their changes in response to the severe events stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic in South Korea. METHODS: The analysis was based on a cognitive-emotional model that links fear and anger to the social causes that trigger them and used discursive content from comments posted on YouTube's COVID-19-related videos. A total of 182,915 comments from 1,200 videos were collected between January and December 2020. We performed data analyses and visualizations using R, Netminer 4.0, and Gephi software and calculated Pearson's correlation coefficients between emotions. RESULTS: YouTube videos were analyzed for keywords indicating cognitive assessments of major events related to COVID-19 and keywords indicating negative emotions. Eight topics were identified through topic modeling: causes and risks, perceptions of China, media and information, infection prevention rules, economic activity, school and infection, political leaders, and religion, politics, and infection. The correlation coefficient between fear and anger was 0.462 (p < .001), indicating a moderate linear relationship between the two emotions. Fear was the highest from January to March in the first year of the COVID-19 outbreak, while anger occurred before and after the outbreak, with fluctuations in both emotions during this period. CONCLUSIONS: This study confirmed that social cognitions and negative emotions are intertwined in response to major events related to the COVID-19 pandemic, with each emotion varying individually rather than being ambiguously mixed. These findings could aid in developing social cognition-emotion-based public health strategies through education and communication during future pandemic outbreaks.

Can Chat-GPT Assist the Orthopedic Surgeons in Evaluating the Quality of Rotator Cuff Surgery Patient Information Videos?

BACKGROUND: Patients and healthcare professionals extensively rely on the internet for medical information. Low-quality videos can significantly impact the patient-doctor relationship, potentially affecting consultation efficiency and decision-making process. Chat Generative Pre-Trained Transformer (ChatGPT) is an artificial intelligence application with the potential to improve medical reports, provide medical information, and supplement orthopedic knowledge acquisition. This study aimed to assess the ability of ChatGPT-4 to detect deficiencies in these videos, assuming it would be successful in identifying such deficiencies. MATERIALS AND METHODS: YouTube was searched for 'rotator cuff surgery' and 'rotator cuff surgery clinic' videos. A total of 90 videos were evaluated, with 40 included in the study after exclusions. Using the Google Chrome extension '' YouTube Summary with ChatGPT & Claude'', transcripts of these videos were accessed. Two senior orthopedic surgeons and ChatGPT-4 evaluated the videos using the rotator cuff surgery YouTube score (RCSS) system and DISCERN criteria. RESULTS: ChatGPT-4's RCSS evaluations were comparable to those of the observers in 25% of instances, and 40% for DISCERN. The interobserver agreement between human observers and ChatGPT-4 was fair (AC1: 0.575 for DISCERN and AC1: 0.516 for RCSS). Even after correcting ChatGPT-4's incorrect answers, the agreement did not change significantly. ChatGPT-4 tended to give higher scores than the observers, particularly in sections related to anatomy, surgical technique, and indications for surgery. CONCLUSION: The use of ChatGPT-4 as an observer in evaluating rotator cuff surgery-related videos and identifying deficiencies is not currently recommended. Future studies with trained ChatGPT models may address these deficiencies and enable ChatGPT to evaluate videos at a human observer level.

From temperament to YouTube: exploring the link between childhood temperament, YouTube usage patterns, and emotional/behavioral problems among children.

BACKGROUND: YouTube is a widely used video sharing and social networking platform among children and adolescents. However, research on YouTube usage among this population remains scarce. Specifically, studies on factors that influence children and adolescents' usage are clinically significant but largely lacking. Additionally, few studies have examined the association between usage and emotional/behavioral problems, which is fundamental to smartphone research. Therefore, this study explored the relationship between early childhood temperament, subsequent YouTube usage patterns, and emotional/behavioral problems. METHODS: The Kids Cohort for Understanding Internet Addiction Risk Factors in Early Childhood (K-CURE) is the first long-term prospective cohort study in Korea aimed at understanding the long-term effects of media exposure on young children. The study included 195 children aged 8-11 years enrolled in the K-CURE study. Caregivers, predominantly mothers, who voluntarily participated during their visits to community centers for children's mental health in Korea's major cities, completed a detailed self-administered survey. Childhood temperament was measured in 2018 when the children were 5-8 years old. Subsequent YouTube usage patterns and emotional/behavioral problems were assessed in 2021. Data were analyzed using frequency analysis, correlation analysis, and multiple linear regression. RESULTS: The study found that 21.0% of children started using YouTube before age 4, with the most common onset age being 8-9 years (30.3%). These children used YouTube on average 4.8 days per week for 68.5 min per day. Early childhood persistence was negatively associated with the subsequent YouTube usage duration, and the age at first YouTube use was negatively correlated with subsequent usage frequency. Furthermore, a younger age at first YouTube use and higher usage frequency were significantly associated with increased emotional/behavioral problems. CONCLUSIONS: In the YouTube environment, where content is automatically recommended based on user preferences, traits related to usage patterns may be associated with persistence, which is linked to self-regulation. Considering the current trend where children use smartphones, contents frequently for very short durations, our findings highlight the importance of self-regulation in the media usage of children who are still developing. Additionally, our results provide fundamental information for future YouTube studies and illustrate similarities and differences between smartphone and YouTube research.

Haunting Messages: Online Videos and Public Belief in Paranormal Phenomena.

Despite broad skepticism within the scientific community regarding paranormal phenomena such as ghosts and unidentified flying objects (UFOs), many members of the public believe in these phenomena. Previous studies have argued that viewing paranormal-themed television-including documentary, reality, and news programming-can cultivate such beliefs. In addition, recent research suggests that the online video-sharing platform YouTube may serve as an important source of messages about fringe phenomena. With that in mind, this study builds on theoretical accounts of genre-specific cultivation and social media affordances to examine how YouTube videos present paranormal topics and whether YouTube use predicts belief in the paranormal. A content analysis of 50 highly viewed YouTube videos about paranormal topics (25 about hauntings and 25 about UFOs) showed that a large majority of these videos featured paranormal claims and that a majority included purported footage of paranormal phenomena. Scientific sources appeared in only a quarter of UFO videos and almost no haunting videos, while government sources appeared in most UFO videos, but few haunting videos. An analysis of data from a survey of the U.S. public (n = 1,035), in turn, found that paranormal documentary or reality television viewing, paranormal news use, and YouTube use predicted belief in hauntings, controlling for a range of other media use variables and background factors. These results highlight the potential for video-sharing platforms such as YouTube to reinforce paranormal beliefs among the public.

Pitfalls of social media for aesthetic eye surgery patients: assessing YouTube's aesthetic canthoplasty content.

PURPOSE: YouTube, a popular source for diverse information, hosts a wealth of content on aesthetic canthoplasty. Yet, concerns linger about the accuracy and reliability of these videos, with potential for inaccuracies, biases, or misleading information. This study aims to evaluate the quality and reliability of YouTube content on this sought-after facial enhancement procedure. METHODS: The study employs four distinct scoring tools: the Global Quality Score (GQS), the Medical Quality Video Evaluation Tool (MQ-VET), the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for Audiovisual Materials (PEMAT-A/V), and the Video Power Index (VPI). RESULTS: Analysis of a total of 173 YouTube videos relevant to aesthetic canthoplasty revealed scores that were primarily indicative of poor quality and reliability.(Mean score ± SD, PEMAT A/V: 30.75 ± 28.8, MQ-VET: 28.57 ± 12.6, GQS: 1.7 ± 1) Notably, these videos were predominantly uploaded by healthcare professionals (82.1%), and they focused more on advertisements (46.2%) than on scientific or educational information. Their elevated viewership and engagement metrics (likes, comments, and shares) attest to their significant popularity and influence. (Mean VPI score: 176.6 ± 635.8). CONCLUSION: YouTube's influence on aesthetic eyelid surgery is undeniable, shaping patient choices and expectations. However, unrealistic beauty ideals, heightened body dissatisfaction, and social comparisons lurk within its content, potentially harming psychological well-being and surgical decisions. Prioritizing qualified medical guidance and critical evaluation of online information are crucial for patients. Authors and platforms must act responsibly: authors by producing high-quality content, platforms by tackling misinformation.

YouTube as a source of education in perioperative anesthesia for patients and trainees: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Online video sharing platforms like YouTube (Google LLC, San Bruno, CA, USA) have become a substantial source of health information. We sought to conduct a systematic review of studies assessing the overall quality of perioperative anesthesia videos on YouTube. METHODS: We searched Embase, MEDLINE, and Ovid for articles published from database inception to 1 May 2023. We included primary studies evaluating YouTube videos as a source of information regarding perioperative anesthesia. We excluded studies not published in English and studies assessing acute or chronic pain. Studies were screened and data were extracted in duplicate by two reviewers. We appraised the quality of studies according to the social media framework published in the literature. We used descriptive statistics to report the results using mean, standard deviation, range, and n/total N (%). RESULTS: Among 8,908 citations, we identified 14 studies that examined 796 videos with 59.7 hr of content and 47.5 million views. Among the 14 studies that evaluated the video content quality, 17 different quality assessment tools were used, only three of which were externally validated (Global Quality Score, modified DISCERN score, and JAMA score). Per global assessment rating of video quality, 11/13 (85%) studies concluded the overall video quality as poor. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the educational content quality of YouTube videos evaluated in the literature accessible as an educational resource regarding perioperative anesthesia was poor. While these videos are in demand, their impact on patient and trainee education remains unclear. A standardized methodology for evaluating online videos is merited to improve future reporting. A peer-reviewed approach to online open-access videos is needed to support patient and trainee education in anesthesia. STUDY REGISTRATION: Open Science Framework ( https://osf.io/ajse9 ); first posted, 1 May 2023.

RéSUMé: CONTEXTE: Les plateformes de partage de vidéos en ligne comme YouTube (Google LLC, San Bruno, CA, États-Unis) sont devenues une source importante d'informations sur la santé. Nous avons cherché à réaliser une revue systématique des études évaluant la qualité globale des vidéos d'anesthésie périopératoire sur YouTube. MéTHODE: Nous avons recherché des articles dans Embase, MEDLINE et Ovid publiés depuis la création de ces bases de données jusqu'au 1er mai 2023. Nous avons inclus des études primaires évaluant les vidéos YouTube comme source d'information sur l'anesthésie périopératoire. Nous avons exclu les études publiées dans une langue autre que l'anglais et les études évaluant la douleur aiguë ou chronique. Les études ont été examinées et les données ont été extraites en double par deux personnes. Nous avons évalué la qualité des études selon le cadre des médias sociaux publié dans la littérature. Nous avons utilisé des statistiques descriptives pour rapporter les résultats en utilisant la moyenne, l'écart type, la plage et n/total N (%). RéSULTATS: Parmi 8908 citations, nous avons identifié 14 études qui ont examiné 796 vidéos avec 59,7 heures de contenu et 47,5 millions de vues. Parmi les 14 études qui ont évalué la qualité du contenu vidéo, 17 outils d'évaluation de la qualité différents ont été utilisés, dont seulement trois ont été validés en externe (Score Global Quality, score DISCERN modifié et score JAMA). Selon l'évaluation globale de la qualité des vidéos, 11 études sur 13 (85 %) ont conclu que la qualité globale des vidéos était médiocre. CONCLUSION: Dans l'ensemble, la qualité du contenu éducatif des vidéos YouTube évaluées dans la littérature accessible en tant que ressource éducative concernant l'anesthésie périopératoire était médiocre. Bien que ces vidéos soient très demandées, leur impact sur la formation de la patientèle et des stagiaires reste incertain. Une méthodologie normalisée d'évaluation des vidéos en ligne est nécessaire pour améliorer les évaluations futures. Une approche évaluée par les pairs pour les vidéos en libre accès en ligne est nécessaire pour soutenir la formation de la patientèle et des stagiaires en anesthésie. ENREGISTREMENT DE L'éTUDE: Open Science Framework ( https://osf.io/ajse9 ); première publication le 1er mai 2023.

Is YouTube a reliable source of information for temporomandibular joint ankylosis?

PURPOSE: In the digital era, the internet is the go-to source of information, and patients often seek insights on medical conditions like TMJ ankylosis. YouTube, a popular platform, is widely used for this purpose. However, YouTube's lack of regulation means it can host unreliable content. Hence, the primary objective of this study is to assess the scientific quality of YouTube videos concerning TMJ ankylosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study analyzed 59 TMJ ankylosis-related videos. Two Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery specialists assessed these videos. Data on the video source, duration, upload date, the time elapsed since upload, total views, likes, dislikes and comments, Interaction index, and viewing rate were collected and analyzed. Video quality was assessed using the Global Quality Scale (GQS) and the Quality Criteria for Consumer Health Information (DISCERN), comparing health professionals and non-health professionals. RESULTS: Health professional's videos were better in terms of GQS 3.21 ± 0.94 and DISCERN score 3.03 ± 0.75 as compared to the non-health professional videos GQS 3.0 ± 1.04, and DISCERN 2.81 ± 1.13. Health professional group videos had more reliability and better quality than the non-health professional group (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: YouTube should not be relied on as a trustworthy source for high-quality and reliable information regarding TMJ ankylosis videos. Healthcare professionals must be prepared to address any ambiguous or misleading information and to prioritize building trustworthy relationships with patients through accurate diagnostic and therapeutic processes.

Assessment of the quality, content, and reliability of YouTube® videos on diabetes mellitus and polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review with cross-sectional analysis comparing peer-reviewed videos.

YouTube® is one of the leading platforms for health information. However, the lack of regulation of content and quality raises concerns about accuracy and reliability. CoMICs (Concise Medical Information Cines) are evidence-based short videos created by medical students and junior doctors and reviewed by experts to ensure clinical accuracy. We performed a systematic review to understand the impact of videos on knowledge and awareness about diabetes and PCOS. We then evaluated the quality of YouTube® videos about diabetes and PCOS using various validated quality assessment tools and compared these with CoMICs videos on the same topics. Quality assessment tools like DISCERN, JAMA benchmark criteria, and global quality scale (GQS) score were employed. Some of the authors of this study also co-authored the creation of some of the CoMICs evaluated. Our study revealed that while videos effectively improve understanding of diabetes and PCOS, there are notable differences in quality and reliability of the videos on YouTube®. For diabetes, CoMICs videos had higher DISCERN scores (CoMICs vs YouTube®: 2.4 vs 1.6), superior reliability (P < 0.01), and treatment quality (P < 0.01) and met JAMA criteria for authorship (100% vs 30.6%) and currency (100% vs 53.1%). For PCOS, CoMICs had higher DISCERN scores (2.9 vs 1.9), reliability (P < 0.01), and treatment quality (P < 0.01); met JAMA criteria for authorship (100% vs 34.0%) and currency (100% vs 54.0%); and had higher GQS scores (4.0 vs 3.0). In conclusion, CoMICs outperformed other similar sources on YouTube® in providing reliable evidence-based medical information which may be used for patient education.

An Objective Comparison of the Quality and Reliability of Information Regarding Autism Spectrum Disorder on YouTube.

BACKGROUND: YouTube serves as a good source of information on autism; however, the reliability and quality of such content remain uncertain. This study aimed to evaluate the reliability and quality of autism-related information presented in YouTube videos using the Global Quality Score (GQS) and Reliability Score.  Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in November 2023. A total of 48 autism-related videos on YouTube were sourced using keywords such as 'autism', 'autism cause', 'autism treatment', and 'autism kids'. The authors then viewed the videos and collected data regarding the number of views, likes and comments, uploader type, and type of information disseminated. The authors also used The GQS and modified DISCERN score to assess the quality and reliability of information in the videos. The data was then subjected to statistical analysis using the Kruskal-Wallis test and IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 22 (Released 2013; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States).  Results: Out of 48 videos, seven videos were excluded, leaving 41 for analysis. The included videos amassed 25,540,635 views, 304,557 likes, and 37,039 comments. The majority of videos were uploaded by hospitals (n=15; 36.59%), followed by news channels (n=12; 29.27%). Most videos described autism symptoms (n=26; 63.41%), with fewer addressing potential etiology (n=16; 39.02%). The median GQS was highest for videos uploaded by healthcare professionals (n=5), contrasting with news channels. The Kruskal-Wallis test revealed significant differences (p=0.02).  Conclusion: These videos collectively garnered substantial viewership, likes, and comments. Most videos described autism symptoms, although fewer addressed potential causes. Notably, videos uploaded by healthcare professionals achieved the highest GQSs, highlighting their significance in disseminating reliable autism information. Healthcare professionals therefore play a crucial role in disseminating reliable autism information via YouTube. Encouraging their involvement in creating informative videos can enhance public understanding of autism.

Incitement to misuse of corticosteroids by Arab YouTubers in a local context.

BACKGROUND: The ubiquity of social media has ushered in an era where uncontrolled content sharing extends to all subjects, including sensitive topics such as medication consumption. OBJECTIVE: To quantify the prevalence of YouTube videos providing information on glucocorticoids and to underscore the risks associated with inaccurate information, which might inadvertently promote inappropriate use of these medications. METHODS: The YouTube videos were selected using predefined keywords from February 20 to March 4, 2023. The videos were categorized into two groups. Category 1 promotes the misuse of corticosteroids, while Category 2 raises awareness about the risks associated with these drugs. RESULTS: In total, 843 YouTube videos were included. Approximately 76% of the creators were women. Of these, category 1 videos (69.63%) predominated over Category 2 videos (30.37%). Regarding Category 1, dexamethasone was mentioned in 41.53% of cases, followed by hydrocortisone (17.30%). According to these YouTubers, these products/medications are mainly obtained from community pharmacies (58.09%), online shops (20.01%), and through illicit markets and the black market (13.46%). Weight gain was the most common objective, according to 32.62% of the YouTubers. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the prevalence of YouTube videos regarding the misuse of corticosteroids. The common focus on weight gain as an objective underscores the importance of educating content creators and viewers about responsible corticosteroid use. Targeted interventions are needed to promote safe and informed medication practices within this online environment.

YouTube/ Bilibili/ TikTok videos as sources of medical information on laryngeal carcinoma: cross-sectional content analysis study.

BACKGROUND: YouTube, a widely recognized global video platform, is inaccessible in China, whereas Bilibili and TikTok are popular platforms for long and short videos, respectively. There are many videos related to laryngeal carcinoma on these platforms. This study aims to identify upload sources, contents, and feature information of these videos on YouTube, Bilibili, and TikTok, and further evaluate the video quality. METHODS: On January 1, 2024, we searched the top 100 videos by default sort order (300 videos in total) with the terms "laryngeal carcinoma" and "throat cancer" on YouTube, "" on Bilibili and TikTok. Videos were screened for relevance and similarity. Video characteristics were documented, and quality was assessed by using the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool (PEMAT), Video Information and Quality Index (VIQI), Global Quality Score (GQS), and modified DISCERN (mDISCERN). RESULTS: The analysis included 99 YouTube videos, 76 from Bilibili, and 73 from TikTok. Median video lengths were 193 s (YouTube), 136 s (Bilibili), and 42 s (TikTok). TikTok videos demonstrated higher audience interaction. Bilibili had the lowest ratio of original contents (69.7%). Treatment was the most popular topic on YouTube and Bilibili, while that was the prognosis on TikTok. Solo narration was the most common video style across all platforms. Video uploaders were predominantly non-profit organizations (YouTube), self-media (Bilibili), and doctors (TikTok), with TikTok authors having the highest certification rate (83.3%). Video quality, assessed using PEMAT, VIQI, GQS, and mDISCERN, varied across platforms, with YouTube generally showing the highest scores. Videos from professional authors performed better than videos from non-professionals based on the GQS and mDISCERN scores. Spearman correlation analysis showed no strong relationships between the video quality and the audience interaction. CONCLUSIONS: Videos on social media platforms can help the public learn about the knowledge of laryngeal cancer to some extent. TikTok achieves the best flow, but videos on YouTube are of the best quality. However, the video quality across all platforms still needs enhancement. We need more professional uploaders to ameliorate the video quality related to laryngeal carcinoma. Content creators also should be aware of the certification, the originality, and the style of video shooting. As for the platforms, refining the algorithm will allow users to receive more high-quality videos.

Understanding the Long Haulers of COVID-19: Mixed Methods Analysis of YouTube Content.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic had a devastating global impact. In the United States, there were >98 million COVID-19 cases and >1 million resulting deaths. One consequence of COVID-19 infection has been post-COVID-19 condition (PCC). People with this syndrome, colloquially called long haulers, experience symptoms that impact their quality of life. The root cause of PCC and effective treatments remains unknown. Many long haulers have turned to social media for support and guidance. OBJECTIVE: In this study, we sought to gain a better understanding of the long hauler experience by investigating what has been discussed and how information about long haulers is perceived on social media. We specifically investigated the following: (1) the range of symptoms that are discussed, (2) the ways in which information about long haulers is perceived, (3) informational and emotional support that is available to long haulers, and (4) discourse between viewers and creators. We selected YouTube as our data source due to its popularity and wide range of audience. METHODS: We systematically gathered data from 3 different types of content creators: medical sources, news sources, and long haulers. To computationally understand the video content and viewers' reactions, we used Biterm, a topic modeling algorithm created specifically for short texts, to analyze snippets of video transcripts and all top-level comments from the comment section. To triangulate our findings about viewers' reactions, we used the Valence Aware Dictionary and Sentiment Reasoner to conduct sentiment analysis on comments from each type of content creator. We grouped the comments into positive and negative categories and generated topics for these groups using Biterm. We then manually grouped resulting topics into broader themes for the purpose of analysis. RESULTS: We organized the resulting topics into 28 themes across all sources. Examples of medical source transcript themes were Explanations in layman's terms and Biological explanations. Examples of news source transcript themes were Negative experiences and handling the long haul. The 2 long hauler transcript themes were Taking treatments into own hands and Changes to daily life. News sources received a greater share of negative comments. A few themes of these negative comments included Misinformation and disinformation and Issues with the health care system. Similarly, negative long hauler comments were organized into several themes, including Disillusionment with the health care system and Requiring more visibility. In contrast, positive medical source comments captured themes such as Appreciation of helpful content and Exchange of helpful information. In addition to this theme, one positive theme found in long hauler comments was Community building. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study could help public health agencies, policy makers, organizations, and health researchers understand symptomatology and experiences related to PCC. They could also help these agencies develop their communication strategy concerning PCC.

Evaluating the Reliability and Quality of YouTube Videos Regarding Medial Collateral Ligament Knee Injury as a Patient Education Resource.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to assess the educational reliability and quality of videos shared on YouTube regarding medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries of the knee. METHODS: Using the search keywords "medial collateral ligament" on YouTube, the first 50 videos were evaluated by two independent reviewers. Video characteristics were extracted, and each video was categorized by upload source and content type. Three scoring systems were used to evaluate the videos: the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Benchmark Score to assess a video's reliability; the Global Quality Score (GQS) to assess educational quality; the novel MCL Specific Score (MCL-SS) to assess MCL-specific content quality. Linear regression analyses were conducted to explore relationships between video characteristics and scores. RESULTS: Collectively, the videos were viewed 5,759,427 times with a mean number of views per video of 115,189 ± 177,861. The mean JAMA score was 1.8, GQS was 2.1, and MCL-SS was 5.6, indicating both poor reliability and quality. Only videos uploaded by physicians showed a statistically significantly higher mean MCL-SS (P = .032) but were still of low quality with a mean MCL-SS of 9.2 ± 5.9. Multivariate linear regression revealed that videos uploaded by physicians were statistically significant predictors of greater MCL-SS (ß = 4.108; P = .029). Longer video durations were statistically significant predictors of greater GQS (ß = .001; P = .002) and MCL-SS (ß = .007; P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: YouTube videos regarding MCL injuries, despite their popularity, were found to be on average of poor overall reliability and quality as measured by JAMA, GQS, and MCL-SS. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III - Cross-sectional Study.

YouTube as a Source of Patient Information on External Cephalic Version: Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: With the global increase of cesarean deliveries, breech presentation is the third indication for elective cesarean delivery. Implementation of external cephalic version (ECV), in which the position of the baby is manipulated externally to prevent breech presentation at term, remains suboptimal. Increasing knowledge for caretakers and patients is beneficial in the uptake of ECV implementation. In recent decades, the internet has become the most important source of information for both patients and health care professionals. However, the use and availability of the internet also bring about concerns since the information is often not regulated or reviewed. Information needs to be understandable, correct, and easily obtainable for the patient. Owing to its global reach, YouTube has great potential to both hinder and support spreading medical information and can therefore be used as a tool for shared decision-making. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to investigate the available information on YouTube about ECV and assess the quality and usefulness of the information in the videos. METHODS: A YouTube search was performed with five search terms and the first 35 results were selected for analysis. A quality assessment scale was developed to quantify the accuracy of medical information of each video. The main outcome measure was the usefulness score, dividing the videos into useful, slightly useful, and not useful categories. The source of upload was divided into five subcategories and two broad categories of medical or nonmedical. Secondary outcomes included audience engagement, misinformation, and encouraging or discouraging ECV. RESULTS: Among the 70 videos, only 14% (n=10) were defined as useful. Every useful video was uploaded by educational channels or health care professionals and 80% (8/10) were derived from a medical source. Over half of the not useful videos were uploaded by birth attendants and vloggers. Videos uploaded by birth attendants scored the highest on audience engagement. The presence of misinformation was low across all groups. Two-thirds of the vloggers encouraged ECV to their viewers. CONCLUSIONS: A minor percentage of videos about ECV on YouTube are considered useful. Vloggers often encourage their audience to opt for ECV. Videos with higher audience engagement had a lower usefulness score compared to videos with lower audience engagement. Sources from medically accurate videos should cooperate with sources with high audience engagement to contribute to the uptake of ECV by creating more awareness and a positive attitude of the procedure, thereby lowering the chance for a cesarean delivery due to breech presentation at term.

Development and Validation of a New Tool for Evaluating Educational Videos Discussing Skin Surgical Procedure Techniques.

Background: The available tools for evaluating scientific content target written scientific evidence and referencing without considering surgical, technical, or video graphic aspects. Objective: This study developed and validated a tool for qualitatively evaluating videos in the field of skin surgery. This will increase the quality of recorded surgical materials published online and ultimately enhance the reliability of streaming platforms as educational resources. Methodology: Tool development included several stages: draft generation, expert panel setting, internal reliability testing, and pilot study. Results: After two rounds of expert panels evaluating the developed tool, 23 relevant items evaluating the educational value, scientific accuracy, and clarity of the surgical technical steps of the videos were obtained. We applied the tool to the top 25 YouTube videos discussing elliptical excision. Internal consistency, reliability, and substantial agreement between the raters were identified. We identified a strong positive correlation between our tool score and the global rating score (r= 0.55, P= 0.004). Conclusion: It is critical to avoid relying on any video for educational purposes. The tool generated and validated in our study can determine a video's value. A pilot study of 25 YouTube videos demonstrated that the available videos are of fair-good quality, thus necessitating the need for high-quality video production.