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Journal of Public Health

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20-01-2023 | Public Health | Original Article

Coverage of the 2022 infant formula shortage on YouTube: a conversation driven by news media

Authors: Lalitha Samuel, Laura Goodstein, Corey H. Basch

Published in: Journal of Public Health | Issue 3/2024

Abstract

Aim

The early part of 2022 witnessed an acute shortage of infant formula, resulting in infant food insecurity. As in any public health crisis, dissemination of information by internet portals such as YouTube is critical to educate the public. This study reflects the results of a content analysis of most-trending YouTube videos related to the 2022 infant formula shortage in the United States.

Subject and methods

Ninety-three videos were coded for content categories specific to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommendations, and analyzed if content categories were statistically affected by the source of videos.

Results

Videos created by professionals or governmental agencies comprised only 4% of the trending videos and did not address consumer-useful CDC and AAP recommendations.

Conclusion

Our results highlight a missed opportunity by professional individuals, organizations and governmental agencies to use internet forums such as YouTube to meaningfully address a wide-ranging public health crisis.

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Title: Coverage of the 2022 infant formula shortage on YouTube: a conversation driven by news media
Authors: Lalitha Samuel
Laura Goodstein
Corey H. Basch
Publication date: 20-01-2023
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Keyword: Public Health
Published in: Journal of Public Health / Issue 3/2024
Print ISSN: 2198-1833
Electronic ISSN: 1613-2238
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10389-023-01821-8

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Coverage of the 2022 infant formula shortage on YouTube: a conversation driven by news media

Abstract

Aim

Subject and methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Aim

Subject and methods

Results

Conclusion

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