1306 An Observational International Study on the Prevalence of Caffeine, Alcohol, and Drug Use Among Neurosurgeons for Job-Related Reasons

INTRODUCTION: Neurosurgeons may resort to caffeine, alcohol, and various drugs to maintain peak performance as they grapple with work demands and escalated stress. METHODS: An anonymous survey of 23 questions formulated by our research group was distributed through personal contacts and neurosurgical societies. Inquiries revolved around the use of medications and other substances for job-related reasons. Data were analyzed via regression and descriptive statistics in python. RESULTS: In total, 215 neurosurgeons (43 residents) were included, with 213 disclosing their gender (94 females). Out of all, 9.3% were <30, 38.1% were 30-39, 44.6% were 40-59 and 7.9% were >60 years old. Most (70.7%) practiced in Europe, 18.6% in Asia, 6.5% in North and South America and the rest in Africa or Australia. While 132 participants stated they consume caffeine to manage challenging schedules, drugs for cognitive and mood enhancement were utilized by 18 and 35 respectively. Alcohol was employed for stress relief by 28 with 4 reporting as heavy drinkers. Drugs posed a solution to sleep disorders for 82, and helped 8 others in strengthening their hand dexterity. Correlations were observed between drug use for stress management and for cognitive enhancement (rho=0.52, p-value=3.95e-16) as well as between drug use for stress management and for mood enhancement (rho=0.51, p-value=7.40e-16). Drug use for cognitive enhancement and for mood enhancement was also correlated (rho=0.41, p-value=4.13e-10). Notably, 12 of those claiming drug use, initiated it in medical school. Exercise, self-care activities and relational support were the main alternatives sought. Ultimately, most responders recommended extending mental health assistance and raising awareness about drug use. CONCLUSIONS: Reflecting on our results on job-associated drug use by neurosurgeons, we propose the judicious use of pharmacological or non- adjuncts, when necessary, alongside the prioritization of neurosurgeons’ well-being.