Worldwide reported prevalence
Burnout is a prevalent issue among urology residents worldwide, with various factors contributing to its development. Studies from North America, Europe, Asia, South America, and Africa have reported high rates of burnout among urology residents, with factors such as high workload, lack of social support, and limited work-life balance identified as contributors.
In North America, a study from the USA found that 48% of urology residents experienced burnout, and those with higher burnout were more likely to report depression and suicidal ideation. A study from Canada reported that 60% of respondents experienced burnout and highlighted the need for interventions to improve wellness and support for residents [15,16].
In Europe, a systematic review and meta-analysis of multiple European countries demonstrated that the overall prevalence of burnout among urology residents in Europe was 36.5%, with high variability across different countries. In Spain specifically, a study reported a prevalence of burnout of 46%, where stress and inadequate social support were identified as contributing factors. A cross-sectional study conducted among UK urology trainees and published in the BJU International journal found that the exact prevalence of burnout was 44%. The study also found that burnout was influenced by emotional demands arising from managing challenging patient situations, as well as a lack of support from colleagues, supervisors, and the overall work environment [17,18,19].
Within Asia, a Japanese study found that 32.6% of urologists experienced burnout, highlighting long working hours and a heavy workload as potential contributors. Similarly, research conducted in China disclosed a burnout prevalence of 38% among urology residents, where low social support and a high workload were identified as influential factors. However, In India, a multicenter study revealed that a considerable 74% of urology residents suffered from burnout, and in Saudi Arabia, the prevalence among these residents was even higher at 79.6%. Several factors were identified as contributing to this elevated level of burnout in Saudi Arabia, such as extended working hours, insufficient work-life balance, heavy workload, inadequate support systems, excessive administrative tasks, and limited personal time [20,21,22,23]
In South America, a study conducted in Brazil discovered a burnout prevalence of 56.3% among urology residents, with a lack of work-life balance and limited leisure activities serving as significant contributors [24,25]
In Africa, a study conducted in South Africa revealed a burnout prevalence of 62.5% among urology residents, underscoring a burdensome workload and a lack of support as contributing factors. Lastly, a study from Kenya found a staggering prevalence of burnout 67.6% among healthcare workers, where the lack of resources and a demanding workload were identified as prominent contributors [26,27]
Burnout rates are a major concern among residents and fellows in the medical field. Compared to medical students, attending physicians, and individuals of the same age who have graduated from college, residents and fellows experience higher rates of burnout. These rates can range from 40-80% of trainees across subspecialties. In the largest study of urology resident burnout to date, 47% of residents, including 65% of second-year residents, met criteria for professional burnout. One in 6 residents reported career choice regret [28].