Chinese colposcopists' attitudes toward the colposcopic artificial intelligence auxiliary diagnostic system (CAIADS): A nation-wide, multi-center survey

Abstract

Objective The objective of this study was to assess the attitudes toward the Colposcopic Artificial Intelligence Auxiliary Diagnostic System (CAIADS) of colposcopists working in mainland China. Methods A questionnaire was developed to collect participants' sociodemographic information and assess their awareness, attitudes, and acceptance toward the CAIADS. Results There were 284 respondents from 24 provinces across mainland China, with 55% working in primary care institutions. Participant data were divided into two subgroups based on their colposcopy case load per year (i.e. ≥50 cases; <50 cases). The analysis showed that participants with higher loads had more experience working with CAIADS and were more knowledgeable about CAIADS and AI systems. Overall, in both groups, about half of the participants understood the potential applications of big data and AI-assisted diagnostic systems in medicine. Although less than one-third of the participants were knowledgeable about CAIADS and its latest developments, more than 90% of the participants were open with the idea of using CAIADS. Conclusions While a related lack of acknowledgement of CAIADS exists, the participants in general had an open attitude toward CAIADS. Practical experience with colposcopy or CAIADS contributed to participants' awareness and positive attitudes. The promotion of AI tools like CAIADS could help address regional health inequities to improve women's well-being, especially in low- and middle-income countries.