Survey on health and fitness among ophthalmologists in India

Abstract

This work studies various factors related to health and fitness among the ophthalmologists in India. A multi-dimensional study using a comprehensive questionnaire which addressed the areas of work patterns, fitness activity patterns, food consumption patterns, the prevalence of occupation-related musculoskeletal disorders and other health hazards, the impact of COVID-19, and career satisfaction. A total of 537 Ophthalmologists from across the country participated in the survey. Considerable number of respondents (21.34 %) reported that they do not get at least one off day per week. Majority of respondents (84.99%) gets at least 6 hours of sleep per day. Only 49.16% of ophthalmologists exercise regularly, out of which 51.77% exercise for at least 30 minutes per day, where the majority prefers walking, yoga or gym as their preferred fitness activity. Majority of respondents (67.59 %) find it difficult to spend time for fitness, majorly due to work pressure, lack of motivation and inflexible workplace. A significant number of Ophthalmologists (57.16 %) suffered from occupation-related neck and back pain. The major occupational hazards reported were psycho-social stress, injury from sharp and verbal abuse. A significant number of respondents (48.29 %) suffered from a salary cut due to COVID-19. 64.04% Ophthalmologists reported that they were content with their career with good confidence. Majority of ophthalmologists suffer from occupational health hazards. Even though there is a strong desire to spend time on fitness activities, the majority find it difficult. COVID-19 hurt Ophthalmologists due to salary cuts and contraction of the disease.