Inflammatory Bowel Disease on TikTok: Utilizing the Platform for Information on Ostomies, Advocacy, and Disease Management.

Abstract

TikTok has gained popularity among young adults. Individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a chronic autoimmune disease commonly diagnosed between ages of 15 and 29, often use multiple social media platforms for medical information and support. This study aimed to assess the content and quality of the most viewed TikTok videos related to IBD. Using web scraping, 86 videos were collected from the 100 most viewed videos under three hashtags: #ibd, #crohns, #colitis. The analysis focused on themes, video metrics, characteristics, and quality using the modified DISCERN tool and Global Quality Scale. All videos were made by individuals with IBD, and 83% were personal narratives. Eight main themes emerged: ostomy, advocacy, disease management, interactions with the healthcare system, symptoms, social relationships, negative impact of IBD, and complications. The median DISCERN and global quality scores were 1.00 (interquartile range [IQR]: 1.00), and 2.00 (IQR: 2.00), respectively, indicating poor quality. The main themes may indicate a need for IBD-specific education regarding ostomies, advocacy, and disease management. TikTok offers a space for individuals with IBD to share information and experiences. Healthcare providers can utilize this platform to interact with and educate those with IBD; however, no healthcare provider videos were among the most popular.