Knowledge, perception, and practice towards scientific research among undergraduate medical students

Introduction and Aim: Healthcare practitioners must stay updated with recent advancements and integrate scientific insights into clinical decision-making for evidence-based medicine. Scientific research faces growing challenges in industrialized and developing nations. Medical professionals in developing countries encounter more obstacles in conducting and disseminating research. This study aims to assess medical undergraduates' awareness, attitudes, and barriers to participating in scientific research. Materials and Methods: The study took place at Kasturba Medical College (MAHE), Mangalore, involving cross-sectional analysis of medical undergraduates in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th years of the MBBS program. Eligible participants received a questionnaire via Google Forms with explanatory instructions. Results: Study participants averaged 21.08 years (standard deviation: 1.53), with ages ranging from 18 to 30. An overwhelming majority (80%) understood the research process well. Approximately 58% believed that scientific research should be mandatory in the medical curriculum. Nearly two-thirds agreed that engaging in scientific research enhances subject understanding. Most students (73.19%) saw the demanding course load as the primary deterrent to undergraduate research involvement, while 67.23% cited lack of time as the main obstacle. Conclusion: Compared to early-stage students, those further along in their medical education displayed greater familiarity with research and a stronger inclination toward scientific research pursuits.