Content Quality of YouTube Videos on Human Papillomavirus Vaccine: A Systematic Analysis

Sahoo, Soumya Swaroop; Kumar, Prince; Kumar, Raju; Ludhiadch, Abhilash; Mishra, Shubham; Parija, Pragyan Paramita

doi:10.31557/APJCP.2026.27.8.3029

Content Quality of YouTube Videos on Human Papillomavirus Vaccine: A Systematic Analysis

Document Type : Research Articles

Authors

¹ Department of Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences Bathinda, Punjab, India.

² Department of Statistics, Prime Minister College of Excellence, Govt. Model Science College Rewa, Madhya Pradesh, India.

³ Department of Community Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences Vijaypur, Jammu, India.

10.31557/APJCP.2026.27.8.3029

Abstract

Background: The growing dependence on digital platforms for health-related information has positioned YouTube as a key provider of vaccine-related content in India. Nonetheless, the quality, reliability, and completeness of the information accessible on this platform are still questionable. This study sought to assess the content, quality, and reliability of YouTube videos pertaining to HPV vaccination within the Indian context. Methods: Search terms “Cervical Cancer Vaccination” and “HPV Vaccine” were used to cross-sectionally analyze YouTube videos. Screening the first 200 videos yielded 81 suitable English or Hindi videos. Data on video attributes and engagement was captured. Audio-Visual Quality (AVQ), Global Quality Score (GQS), modified Quality Criteria for Consumer Health Information (mDISCERN), and Video Information and Quality Index assessed quality and dependability. The new Content Score for Cervical Cancer Vaccination (CSCCV) was developed based on national and international guidelines to assess content completeness. Results: A total of 81 videos were analyzed and median duration of the videos 169 seconds, Health-related channels accounted for 51(63.0%) of uploads, and doctors or medical experts serving as speakers in 46(56.8%) of cases. Although none of the videos depicted HPV vaccination unfavourably, engagement metrics did not align with the level of information presented. Videos involving medical professionals exhibited markedly higher mDISCERN scores (p = 0.001), signifying enhanced reliability. The overall content completeness was moderate, exhibiting notable deficiencies in guideline-based information. Conclusion: YouTube videos regarding HPV vaccination in India are predominantly favourable, although they exhibit variability in dependability and comprehensiveness. Enhancing expert-driven, guideline-compliant, and multilingual digital resources is crucial for promoting HPV vaccine adoption and advancing cervical cancer prevention initiatives in India.

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