A cross-sectional study on factors contributing to health anxiety among healthcare workers in Nigeria due to the COVID-19 pandemic experience

Abstract Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound effect on healthcare workers (HCWs) worldwide, where it intensified preexisting weaknesses in the healthcare system. Health anxiety (HA) among HCWs emerged as a significant concern, fueled by factors such as extended work hours, limited access to personal protective equipment, and fear of contracting or spreading the virus. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of HA among facility-based and community-based HCWs in Nigeria during the pandemic, examine the socio-demographic factors associated with HA, and explore their coping mechanisms, challenges, and concerns. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study used a purposive sampling technique and an online Google Form to collect data from 327 HCWs across Akwa Ibom, Cross River, and Lagos states during the COVID-19 lockdown. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression were employed to analyze the data and identify associations between sociodemographic variables and HA symptoms. Results: The findings revealed that 42.2% of HCWs reported experiencing HA, with 35.5% showing clinically elevated symptoms. Younger workers aged 18–29 were significantly more likely to exhibit heightened anxiety. Gender identity and location were also influential, with transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, along with HCWs in Lagos, experiencing higher levels of HA. Major challenges included restricted access to clients and heightened concerns about personal safety. Coping strategies reported by HCWs included participating in online learning and maintaining social connections. Conclusion: The study underscores a notably high prevalence of HA among HCWs in Nigeria during the COVID-19 crisis, pointing to the urgent need for targeted mental health support and interventions to alleviate the psychological burden on these essential workers.