Prevalence and factors associated with burnout syndrome in physicians

Abstract

Burnout syndrome is a psychosocial condition characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment, frequently observed in physicians due to high workload and emotional responsibility. This integrative review aimed to analyze the prevalence and factors associated with burnout syndrome in physicians, considering occupational, individual, and contextual aspects. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed and VHL databases using MeSH terms combined with Boolean operators, including studies in Portuguese and English with empirical data on burnout in active or resident physicians. Results indicate a high prevalence of burnout, ranging from 18% to 59.4%, especially in young, female physicians and in high-complexity environments such as intensive care units. Risk factors include long working hours, excessive shifts, sleep deprivation, and lack of institutional support, whereas protective factors encompass social support, coping strategies, professional satisfaction, and self-care practices. Beyond impacting mental health, burnout is associated with reduced job satisfaction, higher turnover, and increased risk of medical errors, particularly in critical contexts such as the COVID19 pandemic. These findings emphasize the need for institutional policies, psychological support programs, and occupational health promotion measures. Understanding the determinants of burnout is essential for preventive strategies that ensure well-being, resilience, and quality medical practice.