Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 13, 2025

A Component-resolved Diagnostic Approach for a Study on Grass Pollen Allergens in Chinese Southerners with Allergic Rhinitis and/or Asthma
Published on: June 4, 2017
A Content Analysis of YouTube Videos on Allergic Rhinitis Management
Sanjay Kumar1, Anghusman Dutta2, Srujan Vallur1
1Air Force Central Medical Establishment, Subroto Park, New Delhi, Delhi India.
Introduction:
This study evaluates the quality, reliability, and usability of YouTube videos on allergic rhinitis (AR) management using validated assessment tools to determine their alignment with evidence-based practices and their potential impact on patient understanding.
Methods:
A cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 50 YouTube videos identified using predefined keywords. Videos were assessed using DISCERN, JAMA, and PEMAT tools for quality, authorship, and usability, respectively. Engagement metrics such as views, likes, and comments were recorded. Videos were categorized by source (medical professionals, influencers, pharmaceutical companies, and alternative therapists) and format (testimonial, educational, promotional). Statistical analyses, including Spearman's correlation and chi-square tests, were performed to explore relationships between video quality and engagement.
Results:
The mean DISCERN, JAMA, and PEMAT scores across all videos were 3.1/5, 2.7/4, and 72%, respectively. Videos by medical professionals scored the highest in quality but had lower engagement, while influencer videos attracted the highest views (mean: 40,000) but scored poorly on quality metrics. Evidence-based treatments were discussed in 72% of videos, yet only 20% mentioned immunotherapy. Misinformation was identified in 36% of videos, with exaggerated claims about "natural cures" being the most common theme. A negative correlation was found between DISCERN scores and views (r = -0.42, p = 0.03), indicating that higher-quality videos received fewer views.
Conclusions:
YouTube videos on AR management exhibit significant variability in quality and engagement, highlighting a trade-off between reliability and popularity. Enhancing the accessibility and visibility of evidence-based content requires collaboration between medical professionals and content creators. Addressing misinformation and improving patient education through digital platforms is essential for optimizing health outcomes.
Supplementary Information:
The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12070-025-05396-6.
Related Concept Videos
Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Asthma-I: Introduction
Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:
Antiasthma Drugs: Inhaled Corticosteroids and Glucocorticoids
ICS work through a multifaceted mechanism of action. They suppress the inflammatory response caused by the proliferation of TH cells. They also reduce the transcription of the IL-2 gene, which is involved in the...
Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
Drugs Used in Lower Respiratory Disorders: Overview
Bronchodilators, the first step of respiration enhancement, come in various forms, each with its own mechanism...

