Prevalence and determinants of burnout among staff of the university of Dschang: a cross-sectional study in a Sub-Saharan university

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Burnout results from prolonged exposure to chronic work-related stressors. Studies carried out on this syndrome around the world report a high prevalence among education professions. The scarcity of data on this subject in Cameroon motivated us to carry out this study at the University of Dschang. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and identify the determinants of burnout among staff at the University of Dschang. METHODS: This study was conducted in two parts: the first part was descriptive, while the second was analytical (a nested case-control study) and took place from January to May 2024. We distributed a questionnaire to collect sociodemographic and professional data, assess psychological well-being (using the comprehensive KARASEK and SIEGRIST questionnaires), and evaluate burnout (using the MASLACH scale) to staff members who consented to participate. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS version 23 software, and chi-square test and Student's t- tests were carried out to identify associated factors. A p-value < 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: We included 322 staff members out of 884, representing a response rate of 36.4%. The median age was 40 (IQR 35-48) years. More than 1/3 had administrative responsibility. Furthermore, 32.8% of staff were experiencing on jobstrain, and 47% did not have social support. The prevalence of burnout was 59.6%, including 75.5% mild burnout, 17.7% moderate burnout and 6.8% severe burnout. Associations were found with the lack of social support (ORa = 2.21; 95% CI [1.30-3.78], p = 0.003), the presence of administrative responsibility (ORa = 2.63; 95% CI [1.52-4.56], p = 0.001). More than half of the teaching staff were overworked. Lack of leisure time, insufficient sleep duration and work overload were not associated with burnout. CONCLUSION: The majority (59.6%) of the staff at the University of Dschang experienced burnout. This was associated with having administrative responsibility and lacking of social support. Staff support measures are recommended.