Neil H. Baum, MD, presented “The Science Behind Burnout” for the Grand Rounds in Urology audience in November 2020.

How to cite: Baum, Neil H. “The Science Behind Burnout” November 2020. Accessed Mar 2024. https://grandroundsinurology.com/the-science-behind-burnout/

The Science Behind Burnout – Summary:

Grand Rounds in Urology Contributing Editor Neil H. Baum, MD, Professor of Urology at Tulane Medical School, looks at the science behind burnout, which is extremely prevalent among doctors, and particularly among urology residents and fellows. He lists the telltale signs of burnout and discusses its relationship to telomeres, the caps on the ends of chromosomes which prevent them from “fraying.” Most people have long telomeres but, as Dr. Baum explains, in instances of stress or burnout they shorten, resulting in DNA breakage and cellular dysfunction. He then discusses the effect these shortened telomeres can have on emotions and immune function, and explores the relationship between various diseases and shorter telomeres. Finally, Dr. Baum offers some advice about how one can determine if they are suffering from burnout and points to where people can find more information on the subject of burnout and telomeres.

For more commentary from Dr. Baum, visit his Improving Your Urology Practice page.