Key points are not available for this paper at this time.
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the quality and readability of websites on chronic rhinosinusitis. METHODS: A total of 180 results from 3 different search engines regarding 'chronic rhinosinusitis', 'sinusitis' and 'sinus infections' were analysed for readability using the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level, Flesch Reading Ease Score and Gunning Fog Index. The Discern tool was used to approximate information quality. RESULTS: From 180 total searches, 69 unique websites were identified. These had an average Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level of 9.75 (95 per cent confidence interval = 9.12-10.4), a Flesch Reading Ease Score of 45.0 (41.0-49.0) and a Gunning Fog Index of 13.7 (12.9-14.4), which equates to the average reading level of a college or university student. Discern scores were variable but consistently showed good-quality information. CONCLUSION: Chronic rhinosinusitis information is of a high quality but is for a reading level higher than that of the average adult. Standardising patient information should ensure adequate comprehension and improve patient compliance.
Amir Habeeb (Tue,) studied this question.