Digital health information is increasingly important in the medical field, but the quality and accuracy of online content can vary, potentially harming the patient-physician relationship. This study evaluated online health information on overactive bladder (OAB) across platforms like Google, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube. It found that Google and YouTube offered the most informative content, primarily from professional associations, while LinkedIn contained mostly misleading information, often from industry and healthcare professionals. A significant gap was noted in the availability of content on surgical treatments for OAB, with conservative treatments, especially alternative medicine, being more common.

The analysis showed that Google and YouTube provided the most comprehensive OAB information, mostly targeting unspecified and female populations. However, surgical treatments like onabotulinumtoxinA injections and sacral neuromodulation were underrepresented, with only 33% and 48% of content on Google and YouTube, respectively, covering these options. In contrast, alternative medicine treatments were more prominent, despite limited supporting evidence. The study underscores the need for more accurate digital health information, especially for vulnerable populations, and highlights the role of professional organizations in providing reliable, up-to-date medical content.

Reference: Hüsch T, Ober S, Haferkamp A, et al. Digital health information on surgical treatment options for overactive bladder is underrepresented. World J Urol. 2023;41(7):1891-1896. doi: 10.1007/s00345-023-04447-3.