Global Prevalence of Burnout in Gastroenterology and Endoscopy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Burnout is an increasingly recognised phenomenon that negatively affects physicians' well-being, patient safety and the sustainability of healthcare systems. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to estimate the global prevalence of burnout in gastroenterology and endoscopy.

We searched Medline, Embase, Scopus and PsycINFO up to November 2024 for studies reporting the prevalence of burnout in gastroenterology and endoscopy. The primary outcome was the prevalence of burnout among gastroenterologists and endoscopists. Secondary outcomes included the prevalence of emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation, low sense of personal accomplishment and gender-related differences in burnout. We used random-effects models to calculate the pooled prevalence and odds ratios (OR) with their 95% confidence intervals (CI).

A total of 22 studies comprising 8124 participants were included. The pooled prevalence of burnout was 45% (95% CI, 37%-54%), with significant variability observed across different geographical regions, assessment tools and definitions of burnout. The pooled prevalence of emotional exhaustion was 31% (95% CI, 22%-40%), depersonalisation was 23% (95% CI, 16%-31%), and low sense of personal accomplishment was 25% (95% CI, 10%-40%). Female gastroenterologists were more likely to experience burnout than males (OR 1.53; 95% CI, 1.16-2.01; p < 0.001).

Almost half of gastroenterologists and endoscopists experience burnout, with females being disproportionately affected. These findings highlight the need for urgent action to address burnout and its contributing factors, including gender disparities.