The Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence Tools, for Example, ChatGPT, by Oncology Residents in Nigeria

Introduction: Artificial Intelligence (AI) has increasingly demonstrated benefits across multiple sectors, including healthcare. Despite its expanding applications, adoption of generative AI in Oncology residency training in Africa remains limited. This study assessed the knowledge, usage patterns, perceptions, and challenges associated with generative AI tools among Oncology residents in Nigeria, an under-researched area. Methodology: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 26 Radiation and Clinical Oncology residents across eight residency-training institutions in Nigeria between June and July 2025. The questionnaire collected information on sociodemographic characteristics, patterns of AI use, perceptions, and challenges encountered. Data analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27. Results: Respondents had a mean age of 34 ± 4.6 years and had spent an average of 2.8 ± 1.8 years in residency training. Most participants were male (53.8%) and junior residents (53.8%). Nearly all respondents (92.3%) had used generative AI during training, with ChatGPT being the most commonly used tool (96.2%). AI was primarily used for study assistance by 76.9% of respondents, while limited training was identified as the major challenge by 61.5%. Most residents agreed that AI enhanced learning (96.2%) and could improve patient care (84.6%). Conclusion: Most Oncology residents in Nigeria had used generative AI and showed strong readiness for its adoption in healthcare delivery. However, limited training remains a major barrier. Broader studies involving doctors in rural and non-training settings are recommended to guide equitable and ethical AI implementation across African healthcare systems.