ONCOSTRESS - EVALUATION OF BURNOUT IN LOMBARDY

Aims: This study was carried out to evaluate how working with oncologi c patients (from various points of view) can cause personal discomfort for the operator. Methods: Questionnaires (n=406) consisting of many requisites concerning personal and professional factors, organizationa l and work aspects were evaluated. They were given to oncologic doctor s, radiotherapists, various specialists, nurses and radiotherapy techn icians in Lombardy. Results: The study revealed a state of anxiety in 52.7% of subjects and depression in 16%, mainly in the professional nu rsing categories and in particular in women and the young. The most si ngular aspects observed were not related to work organization. Conclus ions: Working in an oncologic environment is, in different ways, the c ause of ''oncostress'' and distinctly induces burnout. However, it app ears to be less significant in Italy than indicated in the literature.