Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder on Youtube: a Quality Analysis

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction Watching videos on YouTube™ (http://www.youtube.com) to learn about diseases and treatments is becoming more popular. Objective This cross-sectional study evaluated the quality of YouTube™ videos on Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). Methods YouTube™ was searched for “premenstrual dysphoric disorder” and the fifty most viewed videos were analyzed. Three quality measures were used: Global Quality Scores, JAMA benchmark, and DISCERN. Other features recorded included video duration, views, likes, dislikes, and subscribers. Spearman correlation was calculated to understand the relationship between quality and those features. Source of upload, target audience, distinction between PMS and PMDD, and inclusion of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5 (DSM-5) criteria of PMDD were recorded. Results The fifty videos had 2,004,266 views. No statistically significant associations were found between video quality and other features. Mean JAMA, GQS, and DISCERN were 1.96/4 (SD=0.45), 2.26/5 (0.94), and 29.5/80 (8.2), respectively. The majority (48%) of videos described symptoms and treatment. 14% gave DSM-5 for PMDD. The target audience were patients for 82%. The common sources of upload were individual users (34%), professional organizations (16%), healthcare professionals (12%), and academic organizations (10%). 20% mentioned the importance of tracking symptoms in a menstrual diary. 28% distinguished PMDD from Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS). 30% of the videos included personal narratives, 20% included descriptions from medical doctors, and 12% included both. Conclusions The overall quality of the videos is poor based on the three measures. Since the quality of videos remains unregulated and they are easily accessible, inaccurate information can be disseminated quickly. The study revealed a need for more objective biopsychosocial information on the diagnosis, clinical presentation, and treatment options on the video platform. Currently, healthcare professionals and academic institutions post only a minority of videos. To increase credible information, healthcare professionals and academic organizations can increase the number and quality of videos they make for YouTube™. Disclosure No