Analysis of the most viewed Hindi YouTube videos on breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women worldwide. Social media channels are a significant source of health information including breast cancer. YouTube has a broad range of educational materials on various health issues in many languages. However, the accuracy of these videos is contentious. This study aimed to examine the accuracy of the most viewed Hindi videos on YouTube related to breast cancer.

On YouTube, the "Breast Cancer-Hindi" term was searched for the 50 most viewed Hindi videos. To evaluate the videos' quality and reliability, global quality scores (GQS) and DISCERN (quality criteria for the assessment of written health information), and for credibility and usefulness Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) tool were used. Popularity was measured using a video power index (VPI). Comparisons of scores were made between professionals' and consumers' videos. Two health researchers independently rated the videos and their correlation was calculated for agreement.

Of all the 50 videos viewed, 23 (46%) each were uploaded by consumers and professionals. GQS median 3 (1-5), DISCERN median 13 (5-23), JAMA median 2 (0.50-4), and VPI median 90.7 (50-96.93) were reported. All scores of professionals were higher than consumers at a significant level ( P < 0.05). A significant correlation was found between both observers ( P < 0.01).

YouTube has some good quality and reliable videos on breast cancer in the Hindi language. These videos are mostly of professionals in comparison with consumers with wide viewership. However, they are limited in numbers; therefore, health professionals should upload more videos with accurate information to spread awareness about breast cancer.