YouTube is widely used by patients seeking information about robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP), but the reliability, transparency, and counseling coverage of RARP-related videos remain variable, particularly in a fragmented and search-driven digital environment. To evaluate the quality, reliability, transparency, and patient-oriented counseling coverage of YouTube videos on RARP and identify underrepresented topics relevant to shared decision-making. Cross-sectional observational study. YouTube was searched on February 16, 2026, using "robotic radical prostatectomy," "RARP prostate," and "da Vinci prostatectomy" in incognito mode. After duplicate removal and eligibility assessment, 174 videos were included. Video characteristics, uploader type, target audience, and format were recorded. Educational quality, reliability, and transparency were assessed using the Global Quality Scale (GQS), modified DISCERN, and Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmark criteria. Counseling-related coverage was assessed using a 15-item RARP-specific checklist designed to evaluate key patient-centered domains rather than stand-alone adequacy. Non-parametric tests and Spearman correlations were used. Among 174 videos, 93.7% targeted patients. Median duration was 3.09 min (interquartile range (IQR), 1.92-5.91), and median view count was 1658 (IQR, 371-9747). Educational quality and reliability were low to moderate (median GQS 2 (IQR, 2-3); modified DISCERN 2 (IQR, 2-3)). Transparency was limited (median JAMA 2 (IQR, 1-2)), with only 10.9% achieving JAMA ⩾3. Clinically important counseling topics were frequently underrepresented, including postoperative prostate-specific antigen follow-up (84.5%), complications/complication rates (55.2%), erectile dysfunction (40.8%), urinary continence outcomes (39.7%), and recovery timeline (31.6%). Transparency differed by uploader type (p < 0.001), whereas quality and counseling coverage did not differ by uploader source. Popularity metrics showed no meaningful correlation with GQS. YouTube provides accessible and highly searchable information on RARP; however, the reliability, transparency, and coverage of key counseling-related topics vary considerably across videos. While short-form or highly specialized content may help address specific patient questions, important topics related to complications, functional outcomes, and postoperative follow-up are frequently underrepresented. Development of patient-centered and platform-adapted educational frameworks may improve the balance, transparency, and practical value of YouTube-based patient education in RARP. Not applicable. How helpful are YouTube videos about robotic prostate cancer surgery for patients? Many people search YouTube before meeting a doctor or deciding on treatment. This is also true for men considering robotic surgery to remove the prostate for prostate cancer. These videos are easy to find and can help patients learn about specific aspects of the procedure. However, easy access does not always mean that the information is reliable, transparent, or covers the topics that matter most for treatment decisions. In this study, we reviewed 174 English-language YouTube videos about robot-assisted radical prostatectomy, also called robotic prostate cancer surgery. We looked at who uploaded the videos, what counseling-related topics they covered, and how reliable and transparent they were for patients. Most videos were aimed at patients. Overall, reliability was limited, and many videos did not clearly state who created the content, what sources were used, or whether the information was up to date. Important topics were frequently missing across the videos we reviewed. These included PSA follow-up after surgery, possible complications, erectile dysfunction, and urinary control outcomes. While some videos focused on specific questions a patient might have, key counseling topics were often absent from the broader set of available videos. We also looked at whether longer or more transparent videos performed differently. Longer videos and more transparent videos tended to score higher for quality, reliability, and counseling coverage. They also tended to receive more daily views and a higher proportion of likes, suggesting that more informative and transparent content does not necessarily perform worse on the platform. Our findings suggest that YouTube can be a useful starting point for patients, but it should not replace a conversation with a doctor before surgery. Better patient-friendly videos, built around the topics patients most need to understand, may improve preparation and decision-making before robotic prostate cancer surgery.
The current study aims to analyze the educational quality of septoplasty videos on YouTube and to investigate the Instructional Videos in Otorhinolaryngology by YO-IFOS grading system (IVORY-GS), the first otorhinolaryngologic video evaluation system based on the IVORY guidelines. In March 2023, a YouTube search for the terms "septoplasty," "closed septoplasty," and "deviated nasal septum surgery" was performed. Videos of operations on patients and cadaver dissections were included. The IVORY-GS was adapted for septoplasty and used to evaluate the quality of videos in terms of ethical considerations, technical aspects, case presentation, surgical procedure, and organ-specific elements. Descriptive data on the videos were collected, including views, likes, video duration, and time since publication. Statistical tests were applied to identify correlations between the characteristics of the videos and the overall IVORY-GS score. A total of 105 septoplasty videos were included. While 40% showed a Cottle technique, 53% observed the Killian technique. The average overall IVORY-GS score for septoplasty videos was 25.3 (maximally 48.0). In only 10% of the videos was the training quality evaluated as moderate/high. In comparison to macroscopic videos and videos published within the past 50 months, endoscopic videos received significantly higher overall scores (both p < 0.01). There was a significant correlation between the overall IVORY-GS score and the number of likes (p = 0.02). A higher overall score was a significant predictor of the number of likes (p = 0.02). The analysis shows that only a small proportion of the septoplasty videos available on YouTube are suitable for surgical education. The IVORY-GS is useful for evaluating the training quality of videos in otorhinolaryngology and could be helpful for creation of a dedicated online platform for high-quality ENT surgical videos. ZIELSETZUNG: Die vorliegende Studie zielte darauf ab, die Ausbildungsqualität von Septumplastikvideos auf YouTube zu analysieren und das „Instructional Videos in Otorhinolaryngology by YO-IFOS-Grading-System“ (IVORY-GS), das erste otorhinolaryngologische Videobewertungssystem basierend auf den IVORY-Guidelines, zu untersuchen. Im März 2023 wurde auf YouTube nach den Begriffen „septoplasty“, „closed septoplasty“ und „deviated nasal septum surgery“ gesucht. Es wurden Videos von Operationen an Patient:innen und Kadaverdissektionen eingeschlossen. Das IVORY-GS wurde für die Septumplastik angepasst und zur Bewertung der Videoqualität anhand von Kriterien zu Ethik, technischen Aspekten, Fallpräsentation, chirurgischem Vorgehen und organspezifischen Elementen angewendet. Es wurden deskriptive Daten zu den Videoeigenschaften erhoben, darunter Aufrufe, „Likes“, Videolänge und Zeit seit Veröffentlichung. Statistische Analysen wurden durchgeführt, um Zusammenhänge zwischen Videoeigenschaften und dem IVORY-GS-Gesamtscore zu identifizieren. Insgesamt wurden 105 Septumplastikvideos eingeschlossen. Davon zeigten 40 % eine Cottle-Technik, während 53 % der Killian-Technik folgten. Der durchschnittliche IVORY-GS-Gesamtscore für Septumplastikvideos betrug 25,3 (maximal 48,0). Die Ausbildungsqualität der Videos wurde in 10 % der Fälle als moderat/hoch bewertet. Endoskopische im Vergleich zu makroskopischen Videos (p < 0,01) und Videos, die innerhalb der letzten 50 Monate veröffentlicht wurden (p < 0,01), erhielten signifikant höhere Gesamtscores. Es bestand eine signifikante Korrelation zwischen Gesamtscore und Anzahl der „Likes“ (p = 0,02). Ein höherer Gesamtscore war ein signifikanter Prädiktor für mehr „Likes“ (p = 0,02). Die Analyse zeigt, dass nur ein kleiner Anteil der auf YouTube verfügbaren Septumplastikvideos für das chirurgische Training geeignet ist. Das IVORY-GS hat sich als nützlich für die Bewertung des Ausbildungswerts von Videos in der Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Heilkunde erwiesen und kann für den Aufbau einer dedizierten Online-Plattform für hochwertige HNO-Chirurgie-Videos von Vorteil sein.
Applying a rubber dam (RD) is fundamental in both endodontic and restorative procedures to ensure a sterile working area, achieve optimal moisture control, and minimize microbial contamination. While platforms like YouTube and Instagram have become go-to resources for dental education, the actual quality of their content needs closer inspection. Therefore, this study sets out to assess how accurate and reliable the information on RD application techniques is across YouTube videos and Instagram Reels. Systematic searches for rubber dam application content were conducted on both platforms on January 18, 2026. After filtering, 39 relevant videos from each source were included. Three independent endodontists evaluated these videos using the Global Quality Scale (GQS), JAMA benchmarking criteria, and the modified Patient Educational Materials Evaluation Tool (mPEMAT). For statistical evaluation, Fleiss Kappa was used to check inter-rater reliability, Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare platforms, and Spearman correlation analysis (p < 0.05) was used. A strong consensus was observed among the observers; inter-rater reliability across all measures fell within the "good" to "excellent" categories (p < 0.001). YouTube significantly outperformed Instagram Reels, scoring higher on the GQS, JAMA, and mPEMAT scales (p < 0.001 for all). Content uploaded by dentists received the highest scores, regardless of the platform. Longer videos tended to have higher GQS and mPEMAT scores on both platforms. In this limited cross-sectional study, YouTube videos exhibited higher instructional quality and reliability scores compared to Instagram Reels. Rather than establishing an absolute superiority of one platform over the other, it appears that YouTube currently provides a more comprehensive learning resource.
Clavicle fractures are common injuries, and patients frequently seek supplemental information online. YouTube is widely used for health-related content, but the quality and completeness of information related to clavicle fractures are not well defined. This study evaluated the reliability, comprehensibility, and educational completeness of clavicle fracture videos on YouTube. A systematic search of YouTube was performed using 4 clavicle fracture-related terms. After screening for eligibility, the 50 most-viewed English-language videos were analyzed. Videos were categorized by source and content type. Reliability was assessed using the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Benchmark Criteria; comprehensibility was rated on a 4-point scale; and educational completeness was evaluated using an 18-point Clavicle Fracture Rating (CFR). Two independent reviewers scored all videos. Nonparametric analyses, including Kruskal-Wallis tests and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests with Holm correction, were applied. The median CFR score was 3 (Q1 = 1, Q3 = 6). The mean JAMA score was 1.4 and the mean comprehensibility score was 3.46. Physician-generated videos demonstrated significantly higher JAMA scores than patient-generated videos (P < .01), whereas patient-generated videos showed significantly higher comprehensibility (P < .01). YouTube "shorts" had significantly lower CFR scores (mean 0.8) than standard-length videos (mean 4.3; P < .01). Across all categories, essential elements of clavicle fracture evaluation and management were infrequently addressed. YouTube videos related to clavicle fractures demonstrated low reliability and limited educational completeness, despite generally favorable comprehensibility. These findings suggest that commonly viewed online resources provide insufficient information for patient education.
Dental implant therapy is a highly predictable and widely utilized modality for the rehabilitation of partial and complete edentulism, spanning various configurations including single crowns, fixed dental prostheses, and overdentures. However, diverse surgical, biological, and mechanical complications can occur across all rehabilitation types, potentially compromising clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. YouTube™ is a widely used source of health-related information due to its accessibility, but the lack of peer review raises concerns regarding the accuracy and completeness of its content. Although previous studies have evaluated YouTube™ videos related to dental implants, those specifically focusing on implant-related complications remain limited. Therefore, this study aimed to critically evaluate the informativeness, quality, and demographic characteristics of YouTube™ videos related to dental implant complications and to assess the information they provide to patients and dental professionals. This study evaluated the informativeness of YouTube™ videos on dental implant complications using a structured assessment framework derived from Newman and Carranza's Clinical Periodontology and Implantology. Using the keyword "dental implant complications" the first 300 videos were screened, and 139 eligible videos were included. Videos were assessed based on the presence of key complication-related topics defined in the reference textbook. In addition, video duration, number of likes, interaction rate, and audiovisual quality were analyzed. Most videos were classified as having a "moderate" level of information, with only 15.1% rated as "very good." Significant differences were observed in video duration, number of likes, interaction rates, and visual quality across different information levels. Video duration also varied significantly according to the upload source, while audiovisual quality differed based on publication year (p < 0.05). The limited informativeness of YouTube™ videos on dental implant complications may contribute to inadequate patient understanding and unrealistic expectations. These findings highlight the need to improve the quality of online patient education and emphasize the role of dental professionals in providing accurate and comprehensive digital health information.
This research aims to characterize the English language tobacco and nicotine information environment on YouTube by examining the content to which those who actively seek tobacco and nicotine content are exposed. We used Google Trends, YouTube's Application Programming Interface (API), and a custom python script to sample the most common videos populated by the most common search terms, and the most common videos populated by YouTube's recommendation feed. After categorizing search terms as "Health Information Seeking" (HIS), "Pro-tobacco/Nicotine" (PtN), or Ambiguous, a content analysis of N = 606 relevant videos identified pro-versus anti-tobacco videos by tobacco manufacturer, broadcast media, health institution, and organic sources. Analyses describe how often each kind of search leads to each kind of source and to pro-tobacco videos in both the primary search results and the recommended videos. In sum 394(65%) videos were pro-tobacco including 83% of PtN and 60% of ambiguous searches. However, just 5 of 118 videos returned by HIS searches or recommendations were pro-tobacco. Tobacco manufacturer videos were primarily found in PtN searches, though two were recommended in ambiguous searches. The most common primary search results for HIS were health institutions comprising 39% of combined primary (45%) and recommended (36%) videos. Although possible, tobacco and nicotine related HIS on YouTube is unlikely to drive exposure to pro-tobacco content and relatively likely to lead to reputable sources such as health institutions. Conversely, ambiguous or non-specific searches (e.g. vape, nic pouch) both lead to a pro-tobacco information environment. Potential individual and platform-level interventions are discussed.
Cardiac arrest is a leading cause of mortality worldwide, and early, high-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is critical for survival. With increasing use of digital media, YouTube™ has become a common resource for CPR education. However, the educational quality and scientific reliability of these videos remain inconsistent. This study aimed to evaluate the educational quality, reliability, and technical adequacy of CPR training videos on YouTube™ using tools and an evaluation index. A total of 120 CPR-related YouTube™ videos were analyzed. Videos were assessed using four validated tools: Modified DISCERN Scale (MDS), Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) scoring system, Global Quality Scale (GQS), and a newly developed evaluation index [cardiopulmonary resuscitation-video evaluation index (CPR-VEI)]. Video duration, views, likes, and uploader type were recorded, and analyses used nonparametric tests and Spearman correlation. Institutionally produced videos demonstrated significantly higher view counts (p = 0.008) as well as higher JAMA (p < 0.001), CPR-VEI (p = 0.020), and MDS (p = 0.031) scores compared with individually uploaded content. Intermediate-duration videos demonstrated significantly higher CPR-VEI, GQS, and MDS scores compared with short-duration videos, while long-duration videos showed higher numbers of likes. Correlation analysis revealed strong positive associations between CPR-VEI and GQS and MDS scores, and a moderate positive correlation with the JAMA score. CPR training videos on YouTube™ exhibit substantial variability in educational quality and reliability. Institutionally produced videos demonstrated higher quality and reliability, while intermediate-duration videos showed higher educational scores and long-duration videos demonstrated greater engagement. However, popularity metrics such as views and likes did not reliably reflect educational quality. These findings support the role of guideline-based, technology-enhanced learning as an essential component of contemporary CPR education.
Scans constitute an important role in cancer management. "Scanxiety", or scan-associated anxiety, is commonly experienced by patients undergoing cancer-related scans. Although more patients are turning to the internet and social media platforms such as YouTube for health information, few studies have evaluated the scanxiety content presented in these online resources. This study aims to evaluate YouTube videos and webpages available to patients relating to scanxiety. YouTube was searched using pre-defined scanxiety search terms and a Google search analysis for the term scanxiety was carried out and results from the first two pages were collected in August 2024. YouTube videos and webpages were evaluated using the validated DISCERN quality criteria for consumer health information and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool (PEMAT). To assess accessibility of reading content, the Flesch-Kincaid reading level was determined for each webpage. Three independent reviewers performed video and webpage analysis. There were 82 videos and 18 webpages included in the analysis. Videos had a mean independent-reviewer rated quality DISCERN score of 1.8 out of 5, which was between low and moderate quality. Websites showed a higher mean quality DISCERN score of 2.7 out of 5. Despite better quality of information, websites were written at a higher reading level than that of the general population, limiting accessibility. Both videos and webpages had low actionability as patient education materials. Efforts are needed to improve scanxiety-related patient education as the number of patients living with cancer and requiring cancer-related scans has significantly increased.
Ceramic implants are increasingly used as metal-free alternatives to titanium implants because of their favorable esthetic properties and biocompatibility. As patients frequently seek dental information online, YouTube has become an important source of patient-oriented health information. This study aimed to evaluate the educational quality and ceramic implant-specific content coverage of YouTube videos on ceramic implants and to examine whether viewer engagement metrics were associated with video quality scores. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 63 English-language YouTube videos identified through six predefined keyword searches. Videos were screened independently by two calibrated evaluators according to predefined eligibility criteria. During scoring, evaluators were blinded to viewer engagement metrics. Video quality was assessed using the Video Information and Quality Index, Global Quality Score, and an exploratory, non-validated dentistry-specific Specific Content Checklist developed to evaluate ceramic implant-specific content coverage. Viewer engagement metrics, including views, likes, comments, and subscriber counts, were recorded. Inter-rater reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients, and relationships between variables were analyzed using Pearson correlation tests. The mean Video Information and Quality Index, Global Quality Score, and Specific Content Checklist scores were 3.27 ± 0.56, 3.34 ± 0.57, and 3.29 ± 1.68, respectively. Inter-rater reliability showed good agreement between evaluators, with average-measure intraclass correlation coefficients (two-way mixed-effects, consistency) ranging from 0.779 to 0.870. No statistically significant correlations were found between video quality scores and viewer engagement metrics; exact p values for these correlations ranged from .129 to .921. The wider dispersion of Specific Content Checklist scores indicated variability in ceramic implant-specific content coverage across videos. Viewer engagement metrics should not be interpreted as reliable indicators of educational quality or ceramic implant-specific content coverage in YouTube videos on ceramic implants. Because the Specific Content Checklist was exploratory and non-validated, findings should be interpreted as indicators of content coverage rather than definitive measures of factual accuracy or clinical adequacy. Clinician-guided digital health literacy remains essential for helping patients interpret online ceramic implant information.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS) is a relatively uncommon compressive neuropathy of the posterior tibial nerve that is often underdiagnosed due to variable presentation and overlap with other conditions. As patients increasingly turn to YouTube for health information, concerns have arisen about the reliability and comprehensibility of such content. On December 23, 2024, YouTube was queried using the terms "tarsal tunnel syndrome," "tarsal tunnel release," and "tarsal tunnel injection." After excluding duplicates, unrelated, non-English, and short (< 30 seconds) videos, 88 were reviewed and the 50 most-viewed were analyzed. Each was evaluated using three tools: the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmark criteria (0-4) for reliability, a 4-point Likert scale for comprehensibility, and a 19-point Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome-Specific Score (TTS-SS) for educational content. Video source, content type, and video power index (VPI) were also recorded. The Shapiro-Wilk test assessed normality, and Kruskal-Wallis and Wilcoxon rank sum tests compared group with Holm adjustment. The median TTS-SS educational content score was 5.2 (IQR 3.0-8.0). Mean JAMA and comprehensibility scores were 2.0 and 2.6, respectively. Only 10% of videos met all four JAMA criteria, and fewer than 20% were rated as highly comprehensible. Disease-specific videos had the highest TTS-SS (mean = 6.8), while non-surgical management scored lowest (mean = 2.8, p = 0.025). Videos by trainers and physical therapists had higher VPI (mean = 338.4) than those by physicians (mean = 0.26, p < 0.001), despite lower educational value. Surgical technique videos were least comprehensible (mean = 1.4) compared with other types (p < 0.05). Among the most-viewed English-language YouTube videos sampled at a single time point, content related to TTS demonstrated generally low educational completeness, reliability, and comprehensibility. While healthcare professionals produce more accurate content, their videos attract less engagement than those by non-physicians. Improving visibility of evidence-based videos is necessary to ensure patients receive accurate information for this underrecognized condition.
To evaluate the educational quality of laparoscopic appendectomy videos on YouTube as a learning resource for surgeons and trainees. The retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Paediatric Surgery, Ordu University, Ordu, Turkiye, between March and June 2024, and comprised laparoscopic appendectomy YouTube videos uploaded between January 2010 and June 2024, assessing video origin, upload date, duration, Journal of the American Medical Association score, educational quality rating score, objective component rating score, video power index, and total video quality score. Three laparoscopically experienced surgeons and three senior paediatric surgery residents independently evaluated the videos. Data was analysed using R 4.0.5. Of the 64 videos reviewed, 38(59%) originated from India. Of the 20(31.2%) videos with a video power index score >10, 15(75%) had moderate quality, 3(15%) poor and 2(10%) good. Educational quality rating score and objective component rating score showed no significant differences between the groups of senior paediatric surgery residents and laparoscopically experienced surgeons (p>0.05). However, expertise influenced total video quality score (p<0.05), with senior paediatric surgery residents and laparoscopically experienced surgeons rating 40(62%) and 27(42%) videos, respectively, as of moderate quality. Poor ratings were given to 20(31.3%) videos by senior paediatric surgery residents, and to 34(53.1%) videos by laparoscopically experienced surgeons. Good ratings were given to 4(6%) videos by senior paediatric surgery residents, and to 3(4%) videos by laparoscopically experienced surgeons. Most laparoscopic appendectomy videos on YouTube were found to be of moderate to poor quality, highlighting the need for curated content and expert guidance to enhance learning outcomes.
ObjectiveTo analyze YouTube comments related to cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) using an infodemiology approach, and to identify prominent themes, emotional patterns, and opportunity/risk areas within the online information ecosystem.DesignA large-scale, mixed-methods cultural infodemiology study. Manual thematic analysis findings were integrated with structural topic modeling (STM) outputs and lexicon-based sentiment analysis (AFINN, NRC) through data triangulation.SettingPublicly available CL/P-related YouTube videos and user comments.Patients, ParticipantsNo patients were recruited; only publicly available comments were analyzed.InterventionsNot applicable.Main Outcome MeasuresThemes derived from STM and manual coding; frequencies of NRC emotion categories; AFINN sentiment scores; word-frequency/word-cloud findings.ResultsA total of 10 550 videos and 23 922 comments were analyzed. In sentiment analysis, positive, joy, and trust categories were predominant, while fear was more prominent among negative emotions. According to AFINN, the overall mean sentiment score across the study period was 1.158, indicating a generally positive trend. Analyses identified 10 main themes and 33 subthemes; prominent themes included psychosocial burden and identity, stigma and bullying, parenting/caregiving burden, a multi-stage treatment process, functional difficulties (speech-feeding-hearing), information seeking, access/cost issues, and misinformation/myth-based explanations.ConclusionsYouTube comments constitute an ecosystem that is both supportive and risk-prone in the context of CL/P. The development of brief, evidence-based video series, standardized "myth-fact" content, clear signposting to trusted resources, and early referral mechanisms for severe psychological distress signals is recommended. In addition, strengthening the visibility of such content through engagement-promoting campaigns may be effective in increasing public awareness.
Meningococcal infections represent a significant public health concern due to their high mortality and morbidity rates. In Turkey, meningococcal vaccines are not included in the routine immunization schedule, and families increasingly seek health-related information through digital platforms. YouTube, as a widely used video-sharing platform, has the potential to influence public attitudes toward vaccination; however, concerns remain regarding the reliability and quality of its content. This study aimed to evaluate the characteristics and quality of YouTube videos related to meningococcal vaccines in Turkey. This cross-sectional study analyzed 158 YouTube videos retrieved using the keywords "meningococcal vaccines" and "private vaccines." Videos were evaluated according to uploader type, content features, message tone, and audio-visual quality. The Global Quality Scale (GQS) and the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmark criteria were used for quality assessment. Of the videos, 55.7% were uploaded by physicians and 92.4% were intended for patient education. Most videos (86.7%) conveyed positive messages about vaccination. Physician-produced videos demonstrated significantly higher quality scores, while videos uploaded by pharmaceutical companies were more up-to-date and had higher view counts. Overall, a considerable proportion of the videos were of moderate or low quality. The quality and reliability of YouTube content on meningococcal vaccines vary substantially. Increasing the availability of evidence-based, high-quality content and encouraging greater involvement of healthcare professionals in digital media are essential to support informed vaccination decisions and reduce vaccine hesitancy.
Monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (MEN) is a common pediatric condition, and misleading or inaccurate information regarding its diagnosis and management is frequently encountered on social media platforms. Therefore, ensuring reliable and high-quality online health information is crucial. This study aimed to assess the accuracy, usefulness, and comprehensiveness of YouTube videos addressing MEN. Five predefined MEN-related keywords were searched on YouTube. Eligible videos were analyzed using the Global Quality Scale (GQS), DISCERN, and Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) scoring systems in terms of diagnosis, management, and treatment. Videos were categorized as useful or non-useful according to content quality and were also grouped based on comprehensiveness scores. Comparative statistical analyses were performed between groups. A total of 153 videos were included. Significant differences were observed between useful and non-useful videos in DISCERN, GQS, total JAMA scores, comprehensiveness scores, and upload source (p<0.001). Videos with higher comprehensiveness scores also differed significantly in DISCERN, GQS, total JAMA scores, upload source, and video duration (p<0.001). No significant differences were found in the video power index, presenter type, or engagement parameters, such as likes and dislikes (p>0.05). Although most videos (79%) were useful, fewer than one-third (28%) were comprehensive. YouTube provides partially useful information on MEN; however, its overall comprehensiveness remains insufficient. Collaboration with academic institutions and professional organizations may improve the quality and reliability of MEN-related information on social media platforms.
Erotic asphyxia (sexual choking or breath-control play) is a high-risk practice associated with syncope, hypoxic brain injury, and death, yet increasingly normalized in online sexual content. We sought to characterize how erotic asphyxia is portrayed on YouTube, focusing on video quality, safety messaging, and misinformation. We performed a retrospective content analysis of YouTube videos identified using 16 search terms related to erotic asphyxia. Eligible videos were English-language, had primary erotic asphyxia content, and were viewed between April and November 2025. Trained coders used a standardized abstraction form to collect data on video characteristics, participant demographics, choking techniques, safety messages, and misinformation. Content quality was assessed using the Global Quality Score (GQS), reliability using a modified DISCERN tool, and interrater reliability using Cohen's kappa. A total of 103 videos met inclusion criteria, with a mean duration of 3.9 ± 2.8 min and a cumulative 3.4 million views (mean 34,702 per video). Content depicted consensual partner choking in 67.0%, nonconsensual choking in 11.7%, and autoerotic asphyxia in 21.3%. Most identifiable participants appeared female (63.8%), Caucasian (59.4%), and aged 20-25 years (51.1%). Thirteen distinct choking or suffocation techniques were described. The median GQS was 2 (interquartile range [IQR] 2-3), and the median modified DISCERN reliability score was 1 (IQR 1-2), indicating low quality and very poor reliability. Only 4 videos (3.9%) included trigger warnings, and 74 (71.9%) contained clear misinformation. Interrater reliability was substantial (κ = 0.79). Widely viewed erotic asphyxia content on YouTube is low quality, unreliable, and often misleading, highlighting the need for emergency physicians to address sexual choking directly in risk-reduction counseling and for platform-level harm-reduction measures to prevent serious injury and death.
This study aims to evaluate the content quality and reliability of YouTube videos on limb lengthening surgery. On July 5th, 2025, a YouTube search was performed using the keywords "limb lengthening surgery" and "leg lengthening surgery." The first 100 videos were reviewed; duplicates and those without English audio were excluded, resulting in 53 videos for analysis. Basic characteristics including views, upload time, duration, comments were recorded. Videos were categorized by source as "physician," "speaker," or "patient," and by theme as "general information" or "patient testimony." Video content quality, including accuracy, reliability, and comprehensibility of information, was assessed using the DISCERN, Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Benchmark Score, Global Quality Score (GQS), and a researcher-developed Limb Lengthening Scoring System (LLSS). Two orthopedic surgeons independently evaluated all videos. The median view count of the 53 videos was 48,036 (range, 1,229 to 3,734,177), and the mean number of days since upload (as of July 5th, 2025) was 1,331 ± 735 days. The mean DISCERN was 24.4 ± 6.9, median JAMA 2 (range, 1 to 2), median GQS 1.5 (range, 1 to 3.5), and mean LLSS 1.1 ± 0.9. Physician-generated videos achieved significantly higher DISCERN and GQS scores (p = 0.031 and p = 0.040, respectively) than patient-generated videos. Speaker-generated videos had higher LLSS scores than patient-generated videos (p = 0.013). General information videos scored higher than patient testimonies for DISCERN (p = 0.035) and GQS (p = 0.025). Video duration and comment count positively correlated with LLSS (p < 0.001 and p = 0.047, respectively), whereas view counts and ratios showed no significant association with quality scores. YouTube videos on limb lengthening surgery are usually of low quality, with limited scientific accuracy and educational value. Physician-produced videos receive higher scores; however, their overall quality still remains limited, while patient-generated content shows the lowest reliability. These findings highlight that inaccurate or incomplete online information may influence patient expectations prior to consultation and complicate shared decision-making. Greater involvement of orthopedic surgeons and academic institutions is needed to provide clear, evidence-based, and reliable online educational content to improve patient understanding and clinical communication.
Earthquakes have caused devastating impacts throughout history, highlighting the growing importance of pre-disaster risk management. With the increasing use of digital technologies, social media platforms such as YouTube have become widely used sources of information on earthquake preparedness. However, the quality and reliability of such content remain questionable. This study aimed to evaluate the quality, reliability, and content of YouTube videos related to earthquake preparedness. In this cross-sectional study, the top 100 most-viewed videos for the keywords "earthquake preparedness" and "earthquake safety information" were analyzed on January 19, 2026. After applying eligibility criteria, 72 videos were included. Video quality and reliability were assessed using the Global Quality Scale (GQS) and modified DISCERN (mDISCERN), while popularity was measured through view rate and the Video Power Index (VPI). Content analysis and non-parametric statistical tests were performed. The findings showed that the overall quality and reliability of videos were low to moderate. Longer videos tended to have higher quality and reliability scores, whereas engagement metrics did not reflect content quality. These results indicate a need to improve the availability of accurate, evidence-based, and practical earthquake preparedness information on digital platforms.
This study aimed to evaluate the quality, reliability, and content level of maxillofacial infection-related videos on YouTube. A total of 101 videos meeting the predefined inclusion criteria were analyzed. The videos were independently evaluated by two researchers in terms of content scope, quality (Global Quality Scale, GQS), reliability (modified DISCERN and JAMA criteria), and user engagement metrics. The overall quality and reliability of the videos were low to moderate. The mean GQS score was 2.96 ± 0.71, reflecting an overall moderate level of video quality. The content predominantly focused on etiology, clinical findings, and diagnosis, whereas information regarding treatment was relatively limited. As the number of views, likes, and comments increased, the quality and reliability tended to decrease; conversely, longer video duration was associated with higher quality and more comprehensive content. Videos uploaded by healthcare professionals and institutions were found to be more reliable. The quality of maxillofacial infection-related videos on YouTube is variable, with particularly insufficient coverage of treatment-related information. Popular videos are not necessarily reliable. Therefore, there is a clear need for more accurate and comprehensive content.
Online data from social media platforms provide an observational window into a wide range of psychological phenomena and real-world social interactions. Accessing these data typically requires the use of application programming interfaces (APIs), which are designed to ensure compliance with the legal and ethical frameworks governing the access, processing, and storage of potentially identifiable information. However, implementing API-based data collection within a dedicated program remains a major barrier for many researchers. This article addresses this challenge by introducing a ready-to-use data collection tool based on the official YouTube Data API (v3) and providing step-by-step guidance for its use. Geared toward researchers and practitioners with little or no prior programming experience, the tutorial enables users to implement transparent and reproducible API-based data collection procedures in their research. The tool and a fully documented interactive Python notebook are freely available via a public GitHub repository.
This study examines how food influencer credibility is associated with healthy eating intention through parasocial interaction, drawing on Social Cognitive Theory, Parasocial Interaction Theory, and Media Richness Theory (MRT). Using PLS-SEM, data from 600 social media users in Turkey (n = 300 Instagram, n = 300 YouTube) who follow food influencers sharing healthy eating content were analyzed. Results showed that influencer credibility positively predicted both parasocial interaction (β = .666, p < .001) and healthy eating intention (β = .260, p < .001). Parasocial interaction exhibited a partial mediation pattern in the credibility-intention relationship (indirect effect = .323; VAF = 55.4%). Contrary to MRT expectations, PLS-MGA revealed no significant platform differences in the structural paths. As an exploratory finding, the direct effect of nutrition literacy on healthy eating intention was stronger among YouTube users (β = .338) than Instagram users (β = .183, p = .034). The moderating effect of nutrition literacy on the parasocial interaction-intention link was not statistically significant (β = .068, p = .086). Monte Carlo power analysis confirmed statistical power above .999 for all structural paths. The study contributes to health communication by providing evidence for parasocial interaction as a mediating channel in the nutrition context, by empirically testing the boundary conditions of MRT in a health communication setting, and by offering non-WEIRD evidence from a Turkish sample. The findings suggest that public health campaigns may leverage influencer credibility and parasocial bonds to promote healthy eating intentions.