Risk factors for psychological distress in oncologists

Abstract

Intense psychological distress (PD) has consistently been reported in oncologists. The aim of this study was to determine the sociodemographic and professional risk factors for PD in Mexican oncologists. Online survey of a convenience sample of Mexican oncologists, evaluating demographic characteristics, professional activities and adversities, and PD through self-report measures. Five hundred and eight oncologists completed the survey, with 26.4% (n = 134) reporting PD. More than half (54.5%, n = 277) reported unrestful sleep. The most significant variables associated with PD included requiring mental health treatment to cope with patients' deaths (OR = 2.75), having had a previous episode of anxiety (OR = 3.22) and having experienced suicidal thoughts related to professional activities (OR = 2.35). Restful sleep emerged as a protective factor for PD. Mental health care should be routinely provided in oncologists' workplaces, especially among those with a background of mental health problems and those reporting considerable emotional impact following a patient's death.