Medical students’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward generative artificial intelligence in Egypt 2024: a Cross-Sectional study

Abstract Background Generative artificial intelligence (generative AI) has revolutionized the healthcare system for medical students and their educational process worldwide. Several studies assessed its efficacy in improving medical studies learning, and others assessed medical students’ knowledge and attitudes about generative AI. So, we aim to determine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of generative AI among medical students in Egypt. Methods In 2024, a cross-sectional study using a semi-structured questionnaire was performed, targeting 423 students as a convenient sample from 10 selected Egyptian universities by simple random sampling. The questionnaire was distributed via online platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, X, Telegram, and Messenger. Data about sociodemographic characteristics, students’ general knowledge about generative AI and its limitations, and their attitudes and practices, respectively, were collected. Results About 2\3 (61.5%) of the studied students had satisfactory knowledge about generative AI and (44.7%) had a positive attitude. Males demonstrated significantly higher knowledge than females (69.3% vs. 55%, P-value = 0.003). Knowledge level also differs significantly by university (P-value < 0.001), with Suez-Canal and 6th October university students achieving the highest satisfactory scores. Key significant predictors that affect knowledge level include gender, university and study phase according to binary logistic regression results. Furthermore, there is a positive correlation between satisfactory knowledge and Practice level (r = 0.303, P < 0.001). Finally, most students use generative AI to check Grammar and prepare their homework or assignments. Conclusion and recommendations There is moderate knowledge and positive attitude about AI that were reflected in medical students’ practice. However, knowledge about AI influenced by gender, university and study phase. Importantly, better knowledge significantly correlates with greater generative AI practice. Offering specialized courses or faculty modules about AI enhance awareness among Egyptian medical students. Such initiatives will enable them to gain knowledge and apply it effectively and wisely.