How much are videos on You Tube sufficient for Turkish hypertension patients?

Abstract

Aims: The quality of YouTube videos has been studied across various medical specialties and for numerous diseases. The aim of this study is to assess the quality, adequacy, and reliability of video content related to hypertension (HT) created on the YouTube platform. Methods: Considering that the native language of most patients and physicians is Turkish in our country, the term 'Hipertansiyon' was searched in the YouTube search section on September 1, 2023. Only videos from the last ten years were included. Video quality and reliability, included in the study data, were defined using the 'Global Quality Score' (GQS) and 'Modified DISCERN Scores' (MDS), which have been previously used in many internet-based studies. Results: A total of 99 videos were included. The mean number of subscribers was 107,997.77 ± 25,850.54, and the most frequently encountered content in the videos was hypertension and its treatment. The mean MDS scores were 4.61 and 4.44, while the mean GQS scores were 3.94 and 3.91. Considering that the majority of the videos were created by expert academic medical doctors or specialists, the content was found to be satisfactory. Academicians hold academic titles and conduct educational and research activities at universities, whereas non-academic individuals are typically specialist medical doctors. Conclusion: Videos created by expert academic medical doctors should be preferred.