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Gender Differences in Perceived Stress among Neurosurgeons: A Cross-Sectional Study
Anita Jagetia1, Krishna Vaitheeswaran2, Mahesh Mahajan3
1Department of Neurosurgery, Moolchand Medcity Hospital, New Delhi, India.
Neurology India
|September 9, 2022
Summary
Neurosurgeons experience stress, but gender differences in stress levels were not significant. Stress-reducing activities like music and exercise showed a protective effect on mental state.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Medical Professional Well-being
- Gender Studies in Medicine
Background:
- Surgeons face high work-related stress.
- Women in surgery may encounter unique challenges due to underrepresentation.
- Understanding gender-specific stressors and coping mechanisms is crucial for neurosurgeon well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate gender differences in the challenges faced by neurosurgeons.
- To assess the correlation between stress inducers/benders and the mental state of neurosurgeons.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional, multi-centric study involving 93 neurosurgeons.
- Data collected via a structured questionnaire distributed through national neurosurgical forums.
- Questionnaire themes included demographics, stress inducers, stress busters, and mental state.
Main Results:
- While no significant gender differences were found in overall mental state, women rated certain work activities (e.g., OPD, surgery, ICU) lower than men.
- A strong positive correlation existed between surgical performance/assistance and mental state.
- Activities like music, games, gym, and yoga demonstrated a strong negative correlation with mental state, suggesting a protective effect.
Conclusions:
- Perceived stress levels did not significantly differ between male and female neurosurgeons.
- Women neurosurgeons reported greater comfort with specific work-related activities.
- Engaging in leisure activities like music, exercise, and yoga appears to have a protective impact on neurosurgeons' mental well-being.
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