EVALUATION OF VIDEO MEDIA PROVIDING KNOWLEDGE ABOUT FUNGAL INFECTIONS OF THE SKIN ON THE YOUTUBE PLATFORM

Abstract

YouTube is a popular platform for seeking health-related information. However, the platform lacks a process for verifying the accuracy of content before publication. This study aims to evaluate the quality and reliability of English-language YouTube videos providing health information related to fungal skin infections. Videos were collected using two search terms: “Fungal skin infection” and “Tinea”, gathering 60 videos from each search term for a total of 120 videos. After screening with inclusion and exclusion criteria, 71 videos were included in this study. Two experts in dermatophytes assessed the reliability and quality using the Modified DISCERN instrument and the Global Quality Score (GQS). Video popularity was analyzed using the Video Power Index (VPI). Results showed that the median scores assessed by Modified DISCERN and GQS were 4 (out of 5). Videos published by physicians and non-physician experts were significantly higher Modified DISCERN scores than non-experts (p = 0.023). However, there was no significant difference in GQS and VPI between groups. This study indicates that the majority of English-language videos on YouTube providing information about fungal skin infections are published by physicians, offering sufficiently reliable and quality information applicable to patients. Nevertheless, viewers should be aware of potential misinformation from non-expert sources.