Science or hype? A cross-sectional analysis of the quality of Hodgkin lymphoma–related short videos

Background Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is a malignant tumor of the lymphatic system. With the rapid expansion of short video platforms, the public increasingly relies on them for medical information, yet the scientific rigor and reliability of such content remain inconsistent. This study aimed to systematically evaluate the content and quality of HL-related videos on TikTok and Bilibili. Methods In August 2025, videos related to “Hodgkin lymphoma” were searched on TikTok and Bilibili. After applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, video sources, engagement metrics, and content features were collected. Video quality and reliability were assessed using three validated tools: the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmarks, the Global Quality Score (GQS), and the modified DISCERN (mDISCERN) scale. Differences by uploader type, platform, and audience engagement were also analyzed. Results A total of 225 videos were included (155 from TikTok and 70 from Bilibili). TikTok videos were shorter but had significantly higher engagement ( P < .05). Most TikTok videos were uploaded by professional doctors and had a higher GQS median score (3.0) than Bilibili (2.0). Both platforms had a median mDISCERN score of 3.0. Videos uploaded by professionals and institutions scored higher on GQS, mDISCERN, and JAMA compared with non-professional users. Bilibili had a larger share of videos from individual users, which were lower in quality and consistency. Across platforms, epidemiology and prevention were rarely covered, and overall content was fragmented. Spearman correlation analysis revealed strong associations among engagement metrics but no significant relationship with quality scores, suggesting that popularity is driven more by presentation and dissemination than by scientific quality. Conclusion TikTok and Bilibili differ significantly in the sources and quality of HL-related videos. Although high-quality short videos can improve public health literacy, their popularity depends more on style and reach than on scientific quality. Platforms should enhance professional certification and content review to promote the standardized dissemination of evidence-based medical knowledge.