Quality Assessment of YouTube Videos as Educational Resources on Colorectal Cancer

Abstract Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a concerning global cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality. With over half of the world’s population now online, platforms like YouTube are increasingly used for health information. However, concerns persist regarding the quality and reliability of such content. Objectives: To evaluate the quality of YouTube videos related to CRC. Materials and Methods: A search was conducted on January 30, 2025, using the terms “colorectal cancer,” “colon cancer,” and “rectal cancer.” The first 250 videos were screened, and 199 met the inclusion criteria. Videos were categorized by channel type, narrator expertise, target audience, and topic. Quality was assessed using DISCERN, JAMA, and the global quality score (GQS). Engagement metrics and video performance were also analyzed. Statistical analyses were performed using the Kruskal–Wallis test ( P < 0.05). Results: Videos by healthcare professionals (HCPs) were the majority (59.3%). Videos produced by HCPs scored highest on JAMA, DISCERN, and GQS scores, whereas patient-narrated and anonymous videos had higher engagement (views, likes, and video power index). Videos targeting the general public had significantly lower credibility but broader reach. Treatment and screening-focused videos had the highest educational value, whereas symptom and story-based videos garnered more engagement. Conclusion: YouTube offers a vast array of CRC-related content, but educational quality varies widely. High-engagement videos often lack reliability. To bridge this gap, HCPs should prioritize producing accurate yet engaging content, and platform-level strategies may be needed to promote trustworthy health information.