AI knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and willingness to use AI among oncologists in China: a nationwide cross-sectional study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare, particularly in oncology, has attracted considerable attention in China. Understanding oncologists' views on AI is essential for developing effective integration strategies in oncology settings. This study aimed to evaluate AI knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and willingness among nationwide oncologists in China. Additionally, we identified factors influencing oncologists' willingness to use AI. METHODS: A nationwide cross-sectional survey of 1,538 oncologists from 31 regions in China was conducted between August and November 2023 using a 22-item online questionnaire, launched on the Wenjuan online platform and shared by members of Chinese Anti-Cancer Association via WeChat. RESULTS: The survey achieved an 87.78% completion rate (1,350/1,538). Among the respondents, 90% had used medical AI products, and 14.59% had used ChatGPT. Respondents demonstrated different levels of understanding of AI terms (mean = 3.524), limitations (mean = 3.256), trust (mean = 3.759), and acceptance (mean = 4.022), with scores ranging from 1 (low) to 5 (high) on 5-point Likert items. Perceptions of AI surpassing doctors' diagnostic abilities had a mean score of 3.255, whereas perceptions of AI replacing doctors had a mean score of 2.829. Both perceptions, along with willingness to use AI (mean = 4.162) and support for its widespread use (mean = 4.061), were also measured on 5-point Likert scale. Factors associated with high willingness to use AI included senior clinical titles (OR 1.41 [95% CI: 1.05-1.90]), working in the radiation oncology department (OR 1.9 [95% CI: 1.29-2.81]), high understanding AI terms (OR 4.66 [95% CI: 3.46-6.34]), prior experience with ChatGPT (OR 2.28 [95% CI: 1.32-4.07]), and high scores on items such as "AI had already surpassed doctors' diagnostic abilities" (OR 8.82 [95% CI: 1.82-2.56]) or "AI will replace doctors" (OR 13.32 [95% CI: 2.11-3.13]). CONCLUSIONS: This study unveils a good understanding and positive attitudes toward AI, coupled with a strong willingness to use AI products among nationwide oncologists across China, despite ongoing controversy over whether AI will replace doctors. Those with senior titles or greater AI knowledge and experience show a high willingness to use AI. Considering the findings, targeted AI education and increased exposure are crucial for the successful integration of AI into oncology settings in China.

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