
pmid: 32694922
pmc: PMC7340362
Baidu, currently the top online search tool in China, has developed an internet search trends gathering and analysis tool called the Baidu Index. The aim of this study was to explore the value of the Baidu Index for monitoring online kidney stones-related information-seeking behavior and understanding of population features and priorities in China.The Baidu Index was queried using the term "kidney stones" for the period 2014-2018. The search volume was recorded as well as a demand graph, with a geographic and demographic distribution. For surgical treatment modalities, the medical term "extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL)" was analyzed and then compared to the term "kidney stone surgery" to assess changes.The search trend for the term "kidney stones" remained sustained growth over time. Searches were mostly presented by the age 20-49, in males in the south of China. The demand graph indicated that the diagnosis, followed by the treatment, and dietary control of kidney stones had received the most attention. The search volume related to ESWL showed a similar increasing trend, but was searched with a greater volume than the term "kidney stone surgery" for most of the last 5 years.The Baidu Index is a useful tool to track online health information-seeking behavior of internet users in China. The geographic and demographic characteristics in kidney stones seem to be reflected in online search trend data to some extent.
Risk Management and Healthcare Policy, kidney stones, kidney stone surgery, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, baidu index, Public aspects of medicine, RA1-1270, search engine, Original Research
Risk Management and Healthcare Policy, kidney stones, kidney stone surgery, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, baidu index, Public aspects of medicine, RA1-1270, search engine, Original Research
| selected citations These citations are derived from selected sources. This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically). | 24 | |
| popularity This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network. | Top 10% | |
| influence This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically). | Top 10% | |
| impulse This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network. | Top 10% |
