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Evaluating TikTok Content on Gestational Diabetes Screening: Accuracy and Impact
Hanna Perone1, Marta Langley1, Kara Patek2
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Detroit Medical Center, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, United States.
Social media platforms like TikTok are used to share information about gestational diabetes screening. While doctors provide educational content, up to 42% of posts contain inaccuracies, potentially impacting health decisions.
Area of Science:
- Social Media Analysis
- Public Health Communication
- Maternal Health
Background:
- Social media is a significant source of health information.
- Gestational diabetes screening, including the oral glucose challenge test, is a critical aspect of prenatal care.
- Understanding the accuracy and engagement of online health content is vital for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the accuracy and engagement of TikTok content related to the oral glucose challenge test for gestational diabetes screening.
- To differentiate content characteristics and accuracy based on the source (e.g., medical professionals vs. patients).
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study analyzed TikTok posts using keywords like 'glucola' and 'gestational diabetes screening'.
- Posts were assessed for engagement metrics (views, shares, likes, comments), account type, theme, tone, readability, and scored using JAMA and DISCERN criteria.
- Harm-benefit analysis was conducted on the identified posts.
Main Results:
- Of 306 included posts, 42% were inaccurate or partially accurate, primarily shared by non-medical personnel.
- Educational content was predominantly from doctors, while patients generated more entertainment-focused posts.
- Doctor-generated posts scored higher on accuracy and quality metrics (JAMA, DISCERN) and had greater engagement compared to non-medical content.
Conclusions:
- TikTok is a rapidly growing platform for sharing health information, including gestational diabetes screening guidelines.
- The prevalence of inaccurate information necessitates strategies to promote accurate content and mitigate potential negative impacts on maternal health outcomes.
- Regulatory oversight and promotion of reliable sources are crucial for ensuring patient safety and informed decision-making.
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