Oncostress: Evaluation of Burnout in Lombardy

Abstract

Aims This study was carried out to evaluate how working with oncologic patients (from various points of view) can cause personal discomfort for the operator. Methods Questionnaires (n=406) consisting of many requisites concerning personal and professional factors, organizational and work aspects were evaluated. They were given to oncologic doctors, radiotherapists, various specialists, nurses and radiotherapy technicians in Lombardy. Results The study revealed a state of anxiety in 52.7% of subjects and depression in 16%, mainly in the professional nursing categories and in particular in women and the young. The most singular aspects observed were not related to work organization. Conclusions Working in an oncologic environment is, in different ways, the cause of “oncostress” and distinctly induces burnout. However, it appears to be less significant in Italy than indicated in the literature.