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, p < 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.