Self-reported alcohol consumption in doctors

Abstract

Background The UK government has prioritized reducing the harmful effects of excessive alcohol consumption on mental and physical well-being. Aims To assess self-reported alcohol consumption amongst doctors at an acute London Trust. Methods An opportunistic, anonymous, survey was conducted by Postgraduate Education Fellows over 2 weeks in December 2018. This included all grades of doctors from Foundation Year One to Consultant. The survey consisted of nine questions, modified from the alcohol use disorders identification test (AUDIT) and CAGE questionnaire. Results Of 446 doctors within our institution, 109 completed the survey (24%). Fourteen per cent of those surveyed abstained from alcohol, 21% drank monthly or less, 31% drank between two to four times per month, 25% drank two to three times per week and 9% drank greater than four times per week. In the preceding 2 years, 9% reported being unable to do what was expected of them on at least one occasion due to alcohol. Five per cent were concerned about alcohol affecting their performance. Two per cent were annoyed by criticism of their drinking, 9% felt guilty about drinking and 4% needed an eye-opener. Eighteen per cent wanted to reduce their alcohol consumption; however, 43% of the 109 doctors surveyed were uncertain where to seek help. Conclusions Twenty per cent of surveyed doctors reported consuming potentially hazardous levels of alcohol and 18% of respondents wanted to cut down. Forty-three per cent were unaware of sources of support. Our findings suggest a role for collaboration between Occupational Health departments and Postgraduate Education teams to support doctors misusing alcohol.

Mental illness and suicide among physicians

“…64 This study also reported that of the 383 physicians who reported risky substance misuse (alcohol or other drugs, or both), 76·9% felt their substance misuse was unproblematic. A smaller UK-based study reported that 22 (20%) of 109 doctors drank alcohol nearly exceeding, or exceeding, recommended levels, 65 although only 5% of doctors from another study met the criteria for alcohol dependence. 66 These results suggest that, compared with the general population, physicians might consume alcohol at a similar rate, or perhaps at a higher rate.…”

Assessment of the influence of non-ionizing radiation to the morbidity of MRI and ultrasound diagnostics specialists in Kazakhstan

“…According to self-assessment of alcohol consumption by emergency physicians in the UK, only 14% were abstaining from alcohol. 21% drank once a month or less, 31% − 2 to 4 times a month, 25% − 2 to 3 times a week and 9% -more than 4 times a week (Savage et al 2020). It was revealed that the healthcare practitioners were more prone to emotional burnout due to emotional interactions with their patients on a daily basis (Singh et al 2017).…”