In a recent study published in Gastroenterology Nursing, researchers found that the most popular TikTok videos related to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have millions of views but low scores for quality of medical information. The study, led by Samantha Winders, Ph.D., RN from the University of Washington School of Nursing in Seattle, highlighted the need for more accurate and reliable IBD information on social media platforms like TikTok.
IBD, which includes conditions like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, can have a significant impact on health and quality of life. The peak age for IBD onset is 15 to 29 years, which coincides with the peak age for social media use. Given the potential to reach a wide audience, social media platforms have become important tools for sharing health information.
TikTok, a popular video-sharing platform, is particularly favored by young adults. With over 1 billion users worldwide, the majority falling between ages 18 and 34, TikTok represents an opportunity to disseminate health information to a diverse audience. However, the study found that the quality of IBD-related content on TikTok was lacking.
By analyzing the most-viewed English-language videos on IBD, researchers discovered that the average quality score was only two out of five on a validated scale. The videos, posted by individuals with IBD and not healthcare providers, often lacked information and reliable sources. Themes addressed in the videos included ostomies, advocacy, disease management, symptom management, and social relationships.
While TikTok may serve as a platform for individuals with IBD to share information and raise awareness about the disease, there is a clear need for more accurate and educational content. The study emphasized the importance of health care providers engaging with TikTok users to provide tailored and reliable information on IBD.
In conclusion, TikTok has the potential to reach a young audience living with IBD, but there is a significant gap in the quality of medical information provided on the platform. By creating accurate and informative content, healthcare providers can address these gaps and ensure that individuals with IBD have access to reliable information on TikTok.
