Depression Rates Among Rheumatologists From Latin America: A PANLAR Online Survey

Depression among physicians is a growing concern due to its impact on personal health and clinical performance. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depressive symptoms in rheumatologists from Latin America and identify demographic, professional, and psychosocial factors associated with depressive symptoms.

This is a cross-sectional study between August and November 2020, using a multilingual (Spanish and Portuguese) online survey distributed by national rheumatology societies under the Pan-American League of Associations for Rheumatology. The survey included the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) to assess depression and the Maslach Burnout Inventory for burnout. Depression was defined as a PHQ-9 score ≥10. Descriptive statistics, χ 2 , t tests, and multivariate logistic regression were used for analysis. A total of 297 rheumatologists over the age of 25 actively practicing in 15 Latin American countries were included.

Of 297 participants, 15.8% had moderate to severe depression, and 33% had mild symptoms. Burnout affected 56.6%. Depression was more prevalent among younger physicians, those with fewer years in practice, lower income (≤$25,000/year), shorter vacation time, and those experiencing burnout. In multivariate analysis, burnout and lower happiness were independently associated with depression.

Nearly half of Latin American rheumatologists reported depressive symptoms. Burnout and psychosocial stressors were major contributors. Early identification and institutional strategies to promote well-being and mental health are critical.