Mammograms in the media: a quality assessment of breast cancer screening videos on TikTok.

[OBJECTIVE] To evaluate the quality and reliability of breast cancer screening information on TikTok using the DISCERN tool, and to compare scores across content creators, including physicians, non-physicians, and private clinics.

[METHODS] A search for the hashtag #BreastCancerScreening on TikTok was conducted March 2025. From 983 videos retrieved, 75 met inclusion criteria after applying filters for language, relevance, and engagement. Each video was evaluated independently by two reviewers using the DISCERN questionnaire. Videos were categorized by content creator type, gender, physician specialty, and video format. Statistical analysis included Kruskal-Wallis tests and weighted-Cohen's-kappa for inter-rater reliability.

[RESULTS] Among 75 analyzed videos, 41% were created by physicians, 31% by non-physicians, and 28% by private clinics. Physician videos received the highest mean DISCERN score (3.12), followed by private clinics (3.07), and non-physicians (2.29). Videos focusing on breast cancer imaging scored highest (3.14), while those based on personal experiences scored lowest (2.35). Kruskal-Wallis testing revealed significant differences in DISCERN scores across creator types (p < 0.001). Post-hoc analysis showed that physician and private clinic videos scored significantly higher than non-physician videos. Inter-rater reliability was moderate for physicians, fair for non-physicians, and very good for private clinics.

[CONCLUSION] Breast cancer screening information on TikTok varies in quality. Content created by physicians and clinics is more reliable/comprehensive. Because DISCERN evaluates quality rather than scientific accuracy, these findings reflect how clearly information is communicated rather than its medical correctness. Improving clarity and reliability of social media health content could enhance public understanding and encourage informed screening behaviors.