Perception, Awareness, and Attitudes Toward Artificial Intelligence in Health Sciences: A Questionnaire-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Background:Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming healthcare by supporting clinical decision-making, diagnostics, education, and health system management. Understanding how individuals in health sciences perceive, understand, and respond to AI is essential for its effective and ethical integration into healthcare practice and education.

Aim:To assess the perception, awareness, and attitudes toward artificial intelligence among individuals in health science disciplines.

Methods:A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted over six months among health science students, academic staff, and healthcare professionals. A structured, validated, self-administered questionnaire assessed demographic characteristics, awareness of AI concepts and applications, perceptions of benefits and risks, and attitudes toward AI adoption. Data from 1,010 participants were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Associations between demographic factors, awareness levels, and attitudes toward AI were evaluated, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Results:Of the 1,010 participants, 360 (35.6%) were male and 650 (64.4%) were female. High awareness of AI was observed in 48.0% of respondents, while 34.0% demonstrated moderate awareness and 18.0% showed low awareness. Positive attitudes toward AI were reported by 62.0% of participants, whereas 25.0% expressed neutral attitudes and 13.0% reported negative attitudes. A statistically significant association was identified between higher awareness levels and positive attitudes toward AI (p < 0.01), indicating that greater exposure and understanding were linked to increased acceptance.

Conclusion:The study reveals a generally favourable perception of artificial intelligence among health science students and professionals, with awareness playing a key role in shaping attitudes. Despite positive trends, concerns related to ethics, data privacy, and professional roles persist. Integrating structured AI education and ethical training into health sciences curricula is crucial to support informed adoption and responsible use of AI in healthcare.