Evaluating the reliability and quality of lupus nephritis educational content on TikTok and Bilibili: a cross-sectional content analysis.

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the content distribution and quality of lupus nephritis (LN)-related short videos on TikTok and Bilibili, compare differences across uploader types and examine the relationship between user engagement metrics and information reliability, thereby providing evidence to improve digital health communication strategies.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study screened 250 LN-related videos from TikTok (n=143) and Bilibili (n=107). Basic video characteristics and uploader types were recorded. The Global Quality Score (GQS), modified DISCERN (mDISCERN; DISCERN, a validated instrument for evaluating the reliability of health information) and a content completeness instrument were used to assess video quality. All videos were independently evaluated by three senior rheumatology clinicians. Spearman correlation analysis was applied to evaluate associations between engagement indicators and quality scores.

RESULTS

User engagement indicators (likes, comments, shares and favourites) and the proportion of professional uploaders were significantly higher on TikTok than on Bilibili (p<0.05). Although Bilibili videos were significantly longer, TikTok videos provided more comprehensive coverage of clinical manifestations and treatment (p<0.05). No significant difference in overall GQS was found between platforms (p>0.05), whereas TikTok achieved a slightly higher mDISCERN score (p<0.05). Professional institutions significantly outperformed non-professional uploaders across all quality indicators (p<0.05). Despite strong positive correlations among engagement indicators, major popularity metrics showed limited alignment with scientific quality scores.

CONCLUSION

The quality of LN-related information on short-video platforms varies widely, with popularity metrics poorly reflecting scientifically assessed content quality. While TikTok shows a slight advantage in information reliability, both platforms require improvement in evidentiary support and content completeness. Professional institutions consistently produced higher-quality content, underscoring the need for broader participation by authoritative medical sources. A multistakeholder governance framework emphasising professional input, content quality standards and algorithm optimisation is essential to foster a trustworthy digital health ecosystem.