Tetrahydrocannabinol and Skin Cancer: Analysis of YouTube Videos

Andrina Mamo, Mindy D. Szeto, Roya Mirhossaini, Andrew Fortugno, Robert P. Dellavalle

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Cannabis oil is being used topically by patients with skin cancer as a homeopathic remedy, and has been promoted and popularized on social media, including YouTube. Although topical cannabinoids, especially tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), may have antitumor effects, results from a sparse number of clinical trials and peer-reviewed studies detailing safety and efficacy are still under investigation. Objective: We sought to assess the accuracy, quality, and reliability of THC oil and skin cancer information available on YouTube. Methods: The 10 most-viewed videos on THC oil and skin cancer were analyzed with the Global Quality Scale (GQS), DISCERN score, and useful/misleading criteria based on presentation of erroneous and scientifically unproven information. The videos were also inspected for source, length, and audience likes/dislikes. Top comments were additionally examined based on whether they were favorable, unfavorable, or neutral regarding the video content. Results: All analyzed videos (10/10, 100%) received a GQS score of 1, corresponding to poor quality of content, and 9/10 (90%) videos received a DISCERN score of 0, indicating poor reliability of information presented. All 10 videos were also found to be misleading and not useful according to established criteria. Top comments were largely either favorable (13/27, 48%) or neutral (13/27, 48%) toward the content of the videos, compared to unfavorable (1/27, 4%). Conclusions: Dermatologists should be aware that the spread of inaccurate information on skin cancer treatment currently exists on popular social media platforms and may lead to detrimental consequences for patients interested in pursuing alternative or homeopathic approaches.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article numbere26564
JournalJMIR Dermatology
Volume4
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2021
Externally publishedYes

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
©Andrina Mamo, Mindy D Szeto, Roya Mirhossaini, Andrew Fortugno, Robert P Dellavalle.

Keywords

  • Cannabis
  • Internet
  • Skin cancer
  • Social media
  • Tetrahydrocannabinol
  • THC
  • YouTube

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