Impact of user-generated YouTube videos on knowledge and beliefs in contact lens wearers.

Résumé

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Exposure to unregulated online content may impact health beliefs. Optometrists should be aware of these digital influences and incorporate targeted education strategies to promote eyecare practices.BACKGROUND: This study investigates the effect of user-generated YouTube content on knowledge and beliefs in safe lens practices, and addresses growing concerns about the quality of unmoderated online health information and its potential impact on lens usage behaviours.METHODS: Using a pre-post experimental design, contact lens wearers viewed selected YouTube videos about lens care. Participants were randomised to watch videos containing evidence-based contact lens advice, poor advice, or a control video. Measurements of knowledge and beliefs in the importance of contact lens care practices were assessed using questionnaires before and after video viewing.RESULTS: A total of 154 contact lens wearers who were university students living in Australia participated in the study. Pairwise pre-post comparisons revealed better knowledge in the correct information group (62 vs 74%,  = 0.01) with improved case and lens hygiene knowledge. Belief scores improved (68 vs 73%,  = 0.005) and this was driven by case hygiene domain (80 vs 91%,