Scientific Accuracy and Reliability Analysis of YouTube Videos on Exosome Therapy: Content and Quality Assessment

Exosome Therapy on Social Media

Abstract

Background

This study aimed to assess the accuracy, reliability, and quality of YouTube videos on exosome therapy and their consistency with current scientific evidence and clinical guidelines.

Materials and Methods

This study utilized a descriptive cross-sectional design and systematically examined YouTube content related to “exosome therapy.” A total of 100 videos were initially identified, of which 58 met the inclusion criteria. Each video was categorized by source, content type, and audience engagement indicators, while quality evaluation was independently performed by two reviewers using the DISCERN and JAMA benchmark tools. Statistical analyses were applied to assess group differences and correlations between variables, ensuring methodological rigor and reproducibility.

Results

Among 58 analyzed videos, most were uploaded by physicians (53.4%) or health organizations (39.7%) and mainly offered general educational content. Videos from physicians scored higher on DISCERN and JAMA criteria than those from patients (p = 0.032). A moderate positive correlation existed between video duration and quality (ρ = 0.356, p = 0.007), while popularity metrics such as views or likes showed no significant association with reliability.

Conclusion

The quality of YouTube content on exosome therapy varies considerably. Videos from physicians and health organizations are generally more accurate, yet gaps remain in transparency and disclosure. These results emphasize the need for collaboration among healthcare professionals, academics, and platform managers to provide reliable and transparent health information. Improved regulation, quality content creation, and user education may help reduce misinformation and support informed decision-making.