Medical Student University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine Kansas City, Missouri, United States
Abstract Authors: Shreya Katwala1, Ashna Chali1, Michelle Wu1, Felix Yang1, Mira Malavia1, Trung Pham1, 2
1. University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, United States
2. University Health Hospital, Kansas City, United States
Abstract Text: With TikTok becoming a major platform for sharing medical information, concerns about misinformation, especially regarding women’s health, are growing. This study investigates how uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), a minimally invasive alternative to surgical fibroid treatments, is portrayed on TikTok. We aim to characterize content creators and evaluate the quality and accessibility of UFE-related information, with a focus on its potential influence on patient decision-making in gynecologic care.The top 100 TikTok videos using the hashtag “#UFE” since March 2024 were analyzed based on engagement metrics (likes, comments, shares), uploader type (academic institution, non-healthcare personnel, non-physician healthcare professional, non-radiologist physician, interventional radiologist), and content style (anecdotal, educational, procedural). Content quality was assessed using the DISCERN instrument for treatment reliability (1–5 grading) and the PEMAT-A/V tool for understandability and actionability(0-1 or NA). Statistical analyses examined associations between content characteristics and quality metrics.A majority (67%) of videos were posted by non-healthcare personnel. However, non-radiologist physicians, many of whom are likely OB-GYNs, received the highest average engagement and content quality scores: DISCERN (2.77), PEMAT understandability (77.02%), likes (4,463), and shares (807). In contrast, videos from non-HCPs had lower quality (DISCERN 2.56; PEMAT 64.92%). Academic sources had the highest actionability (33.33%) but contributed few videos. Educational content (35% of videos) outperformed anecdotal content (60%) in all quality domains. Significant variation in understandability was noted based on both video source (p = 0.0035) and content type (p < 0.005).UFE-related TikTok content is largely anecdotal and driven by non-clinicians, which may influence patients' perceptions of fibroid treatment options. Despite limited representation, physicians, particularly non-radiologist providers, generate higher-quality and more engaging content. Given that UFE competes with surgical options commonly offered in gynecologic practice, OB-GYNs should be aware of potential narratives circulating on social media and consider incorporating discussions of digital health literacy and evidence-based options during patient counseling.As UFE continues to emerge as an alternative to gynecologic surgeries for fibroid management, OB-GYNs should recognize the influential role of TikTok in shaping patient understanding. Engaging in digital education and guiding patients toward accurate resources can help counteract misinformation and support shared decision-making.
