Prevalence and associated factors of burnout syndrome among doctors: Example from three university hospitals in Iraq

Abstract

Background: Burnout syndrome (BS) is known to affect health professionals worldwide where negative attitudes towards their jobs prevail leading to psychological distress, work dysfunction, and low accomplishments. However, little has been investigated about BS among doctors working and living in Iraq. Objective: We aimed to determine the prevalence, severity, and associated demographic and work-related factors of burnout syndrome among doctors working and living in Iraq. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among conveniently selected 303 physicians working at three general hospitals in Baghdad during April and May 2020. The self-administered Maslach Burnout Inventory which contains 22 questions, was completed through a direct interview. The questions included three domains scored on a frequency rating based on how often the respondent experienced feelings of burnout according to the three domains. Descriptive statistics were presented using Chi-square for categorical variables. A P-value less than 0.05 was considered a discrimination point of relevance. Results: The mean age of the physicians was 31.3 years, 45.2% were male, and 57.8% were married. Among the 303 physicians, the prevalence of BS was 43%. Younger age, current residency, limited work experience, and extended working hours were factors strongly linked to elevated levels of emotional exhaustion and low scores in professional accomplishment components. Conclusion: The levels of burnout syndrome and its domains correspond to similar studies in Iraq and some Arab countries. National larger studies are needed to determine the prevalences and the associated risk factors which might help design a preventive plan.