Attitudes and practices toward medical literature: a cross-sectional study at LAU Medical Center-Rizk.

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic led to a surge in published medical literature, making it essential for physicians to critically assess and identify credible, peer-reviewed information.

AIM

This study aimed to evaluate the attitudes and knowledge of physicians and trainees regarding medical literature reading.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 156 participants (mean age = 30.65 years) at LAU Medical Center-Rizk Hospital, including medical students, research fellows, residents, and attending physicians. Participation was anonymous. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and Spearman's rank correlation were used for data analysis.

RESULTS

Among the 156 participants (42% male, 57% female), attending physicians reported a higher average of weekly reading hours (2.95 hours) compared to medical students (2.10 hours). A weak positive correlation was found between age and reading time (Spearman's rho = 0.30,  < 0.05). Gender did not influence reading behaviors, as similar trends were observed across male and female participants. Additionally, no significant effect of clinical experience on reading time was noted.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights variations in reading practices among physicians and trainees. Further research is needed to explore influencing factors and address study limitations.