Atlal Abusanad1, Assia Bensalem2, Emad Shash3, Layth Mula-Hussain4, Zineb Benbrahim5, Sami Khatib6, Nafisa Abdelhafiz7, Jawaher Ansari8, Hoda Jradi9, Khaled Alkattan10, Abdul R Jazieh7. 1. Department of Medical Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. 2. Oncology Department, CHU Dr Benbadis, Constantine, Algeria. 3. Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt. 4. Radiation Oncology Department, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. 5. Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Fez, University Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah. 6. Department of Oncology, Private Sector, Amman, Jordan. 7. Department of Oncology, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. 8. Department of Medical Oncology, Tawam Hospital, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates. 9. Public Health Faculty, Department of public health, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. 10. Thoracic surgery department, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center (KFSH-RC), Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Burnout (BO) among oncology professionals (OP) is increasingly being recognized. Early recognition and intervention can positively affect the quality of care and patient safety. This study investigated the prevalence, work and lifestyle factors affecting BO among OPs in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). METHODS: An online survey was conducted among MENA OPs between 10 February and 15 March 2020, using the validated Maslach Burnout Inventory of emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DP) and personal accomplishment (PA), including questions regarding demography/work-related factors and attitudes towards oncology. Data were analysed to measure BO prevalence and risk factors and explore a screening question for BO. RESULTS: Of 1054 respondents, 1017 participants (64% medical oncologists, 77% aged less than 45 years, 55% female, 74% married, 67% with children and 40% practiced a hobby) were eligible. The BO prevalence was 68% with high levels of EE and DP (35% and 57% of participants, respectively) and low PA scores (49%). BO was significantly associated with age less than 44 years, administrative work greater than 25% per day and the thought of quitting oncology (TQ). Practising a hobby, enjoying oncology communication and appreciating oncology work-life balance were associated with a reduced BO score and prevalence. North African countries reported the highest BO prevalence. Lack of BO education/support was identified among 72% of participants and TQ-predicted burnout in 77%. CONCLUSIONS: This is the largest BO study in MENA. The BO prevalence was high and several modifiable risk factors were identified, requiring urgent action. TQ is a simple and reliable screening tool for BO.
BACKGROUND: Burnout (BO) among oncology professionals (OP) is increasingly being recognized. Early recognition and intervention can positively affect the quality of care and patient safety. This study investigated the prevalence, work and lifestyle factors affecting BO among OPs in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). METHODS: An online survey was conducted among MENA OPs between 10 February and 15 March 2020, using the validated Maslach Burnout Inventory of emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DP) and personal accomplishment (PA), including questions regarding demography/work-related factors and attitudes towards oncology. Data were analysed to measure BO prevalence and risk factors and explore a screening question for BO. RESULTS: Of 1054 respondents, 1017 participants (64% medical oncologists, 77% aged less than 45 years, 55% female, 74% married, 67% with children and 40% practiced a hobby) were eligible. The BO prevalence was 68% with high levels of EE and DP (35% and 57% of participants, respectively) and low PA scores (49%). BO was significantly associated with age less than 44 years, administrative work greater than 25% per day and the thought of quitting oncology (TQ). Practising a hobby, enjoying oncology communication and appreciating oncology work-life balance were associated with a reduced BO score and prevalence. North African countries reported the highest BO prevalence. Lack of BO education/support was identified among 72% of participants and TQ-predicted burnout in 77%. CONCLUSIONS: This is the largest BO study in MENA. The BO prevalence was high and several modifiable risk factors were identified, requiring urgent action. TQ is a simple and reliable screening tool for BO.