Archive · 26 Jan 2026
Google AI Overviews Prefer YouTube for Health Queries
A recent study found that Google's AI Overviews often use YouTube more than reliable medical websites when answering health questions.
The study looked at over 50,000 health searches in Germany and found that YouTube was cited more than reputable medical sources.
This is concerning because anyone can post content on YouTube, not just medical experts.
Only about 34% of the citations came from reliable medical sources.
Google says they promote quality content from any platform, including YouTube, where many health authorities and professionals also post.
The study has sparked discussions about the need for better controls on health information sources.
Google's AI Overviews frequently cite YouTube more than reputable medical websites for health queries.
YouTube accounted for 4.43% of all citations, which is 3.5 times more than netdoktor.de and twice as often as MSD Manuals.
Only 34.45% of citations came from reliable medical sources, with academic journals and government health institutions accounting for about 1%.
Google emphasizes that many health authorities and licensed professionals produce content on YouTube.
The study has raised concerns about the reliability of health information provided by AI Overviews and the need for stricter controls.
- Who
- SE Ranking conducted the study; Google responded to the findings.
- What
- Google's AI Overviews prefer YouTube over medical sites for health queries.
- When
- The study was conducted in December 2025.
- Where
- The study analyzed health searches in Germany.
- Why
- The study highlights concerns over the reliability of health information provided by AI Overviews.
- Study Conducted By
- SE Ranking
- Number of Health Searches Analyzed
- 50,000
- Location of Study
- Germany
- Most Cited Source
- YouTube (4.43%)
- Percentage from Reliable Medical Sources
- 34.45%
- Percentage from Academic Journals and Government Health Institutions
- 1%
- Google's Response
- AI Overviews promote quality content from reputable sources on any platform