Assessment the social media content as a source of patient educational information on Urinary Incontinence

Mahmoudpour M1, Sepehran E1, Salehi-Pourmehr H2, Hajebrahimi S2, Mostafaei H3

Research Type

Clinical

Abstract Category

E-Health

Abstract 689
Open Discussion ePosters
Scientific Open Discussion Session 108
Saturday 20th September 2025
13:30 - 13:35 (ePoster Station 3)
Exhibition
Urgency Urinary Incontinence Stress Urinary Incontinence Mixed Urinary Incontinence
1. Department of Urology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, 2. Research Center for Evidence-Based Medicine, Iranian EBM Centre: A JBI Centre of Excellence, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran., 3. Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
Presenter
Links

Abstract

Hypothesis / aims of study
Social media platforms play a crucial role in disseminating health-related information, with YouTube being one of the most widely used sources for medical education. However, the accuracy and quality of these videos remain a concern. This study aims to evaluate the quality and understandability of educational videos on urinary incontinence available on YouTube using standardized assessment tools.
Study design, materials and methods
Videos related to "urinary incontinence" were systematically searched on YouTube. The inclusion criteria encompassed educational content in English or Persian, while duplicate videos, irrelevant content, and advertisements were excluded. Two independent reviewers assessed the videos using the DISCERN instrument for reliability and quality, and the PEMAT (Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool) for understandability and actionability. Data such as total views, likes, comments, video duration, and uploader type (general practitioner, urologist, gynecologist, non-medical sources) were also recorded.
Results
The analysis revealed a wide range of quality in YouTube videos on urinary incontinence. Videos produced by urologists and gynecologists generally had higher DISCERN scores, indicating better reliability and comprehensiveness. However, a significant portion of the content was generated by non-medical sources, including commercial media, non-medical individuals, and news channels. The average understandability and actionability scores varied, with many videos failing to provide clear, actionable recommendations for patients. Despite high engagement metrics such as views, likes, and comments, the quality of information was inconsistent, highlighting the need for improved content oversight (Table 1).
Interpretation of results
YouTube serves as a widely accessible platform for patients seeking information on urinary incontinence. However, the variability in video quality underscores the necessity of increased involvement from medical professionals in content creation. Implementing stricter content verification mechanisms and encouraging healthcare providers to contribute accurate and comprehensive educational materials could enhance the reliability of information available to patients.
Concluding message
YouTube serves as a widely accessible platform for patients seeking information on urinary incontinence. However, the variability in video quality underscores the necessity of increased involvement from medical professionals in content creation.
Figure 1
Disclosures
Funding none Clinical Trial No Subjects None
03/07/2025 12:39:24