YouTube as an information source on BRCA mutations: implications for patients and professionals
Priscila E Laforet1, Bhavya Yalamanchili2, Grace C Hillyer1
1Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University NY, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
Journal of Community Genetics
|January 13, 2022
Summary
YouTube videos about BRCA1/2 mutations are popular but often lack comprehensive information. Healthcare professionals should create more content explaining genetic testing, implications, and surveillance for BRCA mutations.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Oncology
- Health Communication
Background:
- Genetic testing for BRCA1/2 mutations is recommended for early breast cancer.
- Social media platforms like YouTube are increasingly used for health information.
- Understanding BRCA mutation content on YouTube is crucial for public health education.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the content and characteristics of YouTube videos discussing BRCA1/2 mutations.
- To analyze the prevalence of key information within these videos.
- To compare content from healthcare professionals versus consumer/media creators.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 100 English-language YouTube videos on BRCA1/2 mutations.
- Coding videos for specific content elements (e.g., testing, counseling, harms, implications).
- Comparison of video metrics (views) based on creator type (professional vs. consumer/media).
Main Results:
- BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations were often discussed together, with limited differentiation.
- While 85% discussed genetic testing, only 16% addressed potential harms.
- Consumer/media videos received twice the views of professional videos.
- 42% of videos mentioned genetic counseling, but often in the context of determining testing needs.
Conclusions:
- YouTube content on BRCA1/2 mutations needs improvement in clarity and comprehensiveness.
- Healthcare professionals should produce more educational videos covering testing, implications, risk reduction, and surveillance.
- Addressing potential harms and the role of genetic counseling is vital for informed decision-making.
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