Erhan ŞİMŞEK, Ebru UĞRAŞ, Öykü Su TULUMTAŞ
European Journal of Therapeutics - 2026;32(1):129-131
This letter addresses the study by Albayrak and Öz evaluating the quality and reliability of YouTube videos on Raynaud's phenomenon, which found that nearly one-third of the content was of low quality and that popularity was not associated with accuracy. Using the framework of quinary prevention, the authors highlight the risks posed by digital health misinformation. Quinary prevention aims to reduce harm caused by unreliable health information and to promote accurate, evidence-based content. Within this context, misleading online resources related to Raynaud's phenomenon are considered a potential source of informational iatrogenic harm. Such content may increase patient anxiety, encourage unverified self-care practices, delay appropriate medical consultation, and hinder effective patient-physician communication. The letter emphasises the responsibility of healthcare professionals, particularly rheumatologists, to actively counter misinformation by producing and disseminating scientifically accurate, patient-centred educational materials on digital platforms. In addition, scientific journals and academic institutions are encouraged to support research that monitors online content quality and develops strategies to address misinformation. The authors conclude that adopting a quinary prevention perspective is essential for improving patient safety, strengthening digital health literacy, and maintaining evidence-based clinical practice in the contemporary information environment.
