Psychological Stress and Hand Eczema in Physicians and Dentists: A Comparison Based on Surgical Work

Abstract

Background: This research looks at the connection between psychological stress and the prevalence of hand eczema (HE) among physicians and dentists (surgeons, non-surgeons). Methods: This cross-sectional field study involved 185 participants: physicians (surgeons, non-surgeons), dentists (surgeons, non-surgeons) and controls. Hand lesions were examined using the Osnabrueck Hand Eczema Severity Index (OHSI), and participants answered the Nordic Occupational Skin Questionnaire (NOSQ) and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Patch tests were performed using commercial contact allergens. Results: The estimated prevalence of HE (self-reported) was 43.9% (physicians 44.6%; dentists 43.2%). HE was significantly more reported by surgeons than controls (p < 0.004; V = 0.288). Degrees of perceived stress (PSS) did not differ significantly between the groups, though physicians non-surgeons most exhibited high stress (50%), and physicians surgeons most exhibited low stress (22.5%). High stress was associated with 2.5 higher odds for self-reported HE (p = 0.008). Low stress was greater among physicians/dentists who did not report eczema (41.0% vs. 24.6%); moderate stress was more common among those who reported eczema (72.3% vs. 51.8%; p = 0.038; V = 0.210). Conclusions: Since high stress levels may negatively influence physicians’/dentists’ work and quality of life, measures to decrease stress could be introduced into the treatment of healthcare workers who are prone to it.

Hand Eczema in the Polish Female Population

“…During the pandemic, individuals were exposed to increased stress, anxiety, and changes in daily routines, which could have contributed to the worsening of hand eczema symptoms in susceptible individuals. The stress resulting from a novel situation and sudden changes in daily routines could play a role in aggravating and precipitating new skin conditions [ 32 ]. Furthermore, the pandemic’s everyday life was characterized by isolation and anxiety about the well-being of loved ones, as reported by Lewicka et al, which has been associated with increased stress and anxiety levels [ 33 ].…”

Factors that affect voluntary turnover among millennials in the professional services industry of Kuala Lumpur

“…Natural experiments in numerous U.S. states show that legislative and institutional changes undermining teachers' unions raise teacher stress, especially for male, experienced, highly qualified, and STEM-subject instructors. Japundžić et al (2023) research examines how psychological stress affects doctors and dentists' hand eczema. The cross-sectional field research includes 185 doctors, dentists, and controls.…”