Impact of burnout on Gastrointestinal Symptoms among Egyptian Physicians during Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic

Abstract

Background: Physicians appear to be particularly vulnerable to burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic. This may have significant adverse consequences for workers' well-being and health. The relationship between burnout and gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms is not fully understood. Aim: We aimed to determine the prevalence rate of burnout among physicians and investigate its impact on gastrointestinal symptoms. Subjects and Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out among physicians (n=167) in teaching hospitals in Ismailia city, Egypt. An interview questionnaire was used to collect data. The questionnaire assessed burnout syndrome using Maslach Burnout Inventory and assessed the GI symptoms through Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale. Results: More than half of studied physicians (56.3%) exhibited burnout criteria, with a prevalence rate of 74.9%, 53.9%, 5and 2.1% for emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced professional accomplishment, respectively. Emotional exhaustion and depersonalization were identified as predictors of pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen, and nausea. Only emotional exhaustion was found to be a significant predictor of heartburn, bloating, and urgent need to have a bowel movement. While burnout had a significant association with the majority of upper and lower GI symptoms. Conclusion: Burnout is highly prevalent among physicians. Burnout dimensions have significant associations with GIT symptoms. Upper GI symptoms are influenced by burnout dimensions more than lower ones. These findings highlight the importance of implementing urgent interventions that minimize both burnout among physicians and the resulting physical consequences.