Evaluating YouTube videos on oral potentially malignant disorders and oral cancer

Background Oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) are abnormalities with an elevated risk of transforming into oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Despite the visibility of early lesions, OSCC is frequently diagnosed at advanced stages due to low public awareness. YouTube offers potential for oral health education, but the reliability of OPMD-related content remains uncertain. Methods This study systematically assessed the content, reliability, and educational value of 100 English-language YouTube videos on OPMDs and oral cancer. Two independent evaluators analyzed videos using a 6-domain content rubric, JAMA benchmarks, DISCERN, and the Global Quality Scale (GQS). Inter-observer agreement was calculated. Results Of the 100 videos screened, 36 met inclusion criteria. The mean view count was 6,741.9 ± 14,315.5, with limited engagement (interaction index = 1.9 ± 2.3). The highest content scores were observed for Definition and Classification (4.47 ± 0.63) and Diagnostic Approaches (4.07 ± 1.05), while Patient Education ranked lowest (2.57 ± 1.09). Overall video quality was moderate (GQS = 2.94 ± 0.75; DISCERN = 47.29 ± 15.55; JAMA = 2.16 ± 0.67; VIQI = 14.13 ± 2.13). Strong correlations existed among quality indices (ρ = 0.70–0.75, P < .001), but engagement did not correlate with quality. Conclusions OPMD-related YouTube content frequently lacks comprehensive patient education, and credible sources are not always the most viewed. Developing accurate, accessible, and engaging educational videos remains essential.