Attitudes Toward AI,Use Patterns and Information-Checking as Determinants of Digital Health Literacy

Digital health literacy (DHL) has become increasingly critical as artificial intelligence (AI) tools and online health information sources gain prominence in clinical decision-making and health-seeking behavior. Evidence from recent public health studies suggests that individuals’ trust in AI, technology-use habits, and verification strategies influence their ability to accurately interpret digital health content. This study examines the relationship between attitudes toward AI, frequency of AI and internet use, information-checking behavior, and DHL among medical and engineering students at a public university. A cross-sectional survey was conducted between January and March 2026 among students from the Faculties of Medicine and Computer Engineering at Marmara University. Data were collected using validated instruments: the Artificial Intelligence Attitude Scale and the Digital Health Literacy Scale. Non-parametric tests (Mann–Whitney U, chi-square) and regression analysis were employed (p < 0.05). Ethical approval was obtained from the institutional committee. Data from 437 participants (mean age 21±2.01; 52.6% male) were analyzed. Daily internet use averaged 6 hours for medical students and 8 hours for engineering students; AI use averaged 1 and 1.5 hours, respectively. No significant association was identified between AI attitudes and DHL (r = –0.020, p = 0.674).DHL levels were similar across faculties, whereas engineering students exhibited more positive attitudes toward AI (p = 0.019).Importantly, stronger AI attitudes were associated with a higher likelihood of applying AI-generated health and lifestyle recommendations (p < 0.001).This study indicates that positive attitudes toward AI do not translate into higher DHL; however, they do influence behavioral responses to AI-generated content. Findings highlight the importance of integrating critical appraisal skills and AI literacy into university curricula to mitigate overreliance on unverified digital health information.

Key messages

• Positive attitudes toward AI increase the likelihood of following AI-generated health advice, underscoring the need for stronger critical appraisal skills among university students.

• Digital health literacy remains independent of attitudes to AI; showing AI literacy and digital health literacy should be treated as complementary yet distinct competencies in public health education.