Quality and readability of Turkish online patient information websites on benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.

OBJECTIVE

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most common peripheral vestibular disorder. Many patients search the internet for information about their symptoms and treatment options; however, the quality and readability of online patient education materials may vary considerably. To evaluate the quality and readability of Turkish-language online patient information on benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) and assess differences by website source.

METHODS

Seventy Turkish-language websites on BPPV were identified via Google and Yandex on March 1, 2025, using predefined criteria, and were categorized into private hospitals/medical centers, individual health professionals, and general/non-profit websites. Quality was assessed with the DISCERN instrument, and readability was measured using the Ateşman and Bezirci–Yılmaz formulas.

RESULTS

Overall quality was poor (mean DISCERN score: 36.79 ± 11.59), with most sites rated “poor” or “fair.” Websites from individual health professionals scored higher than general/non-profit websites (p < 0.05), while no significant differences were observed between hospitals/medical centers and the other groups. Readability was “moderately difficult” across all groups, with no significant differences (p > 0.05). Quality and readability were not correlated (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Turkish BPPV websites were generally low-quality and moderately difficult to read. Improving clarity, accuracy, and accessibility may help enhance patient understanding and support more informed decision-making.