Prevalence of Burnout Syndrome Among Medical Doctors in Sudan 2025

Burnout syndrome is a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion resulting from prolonged occupational stress, which is highly prevalent among healthcare professionals. It adversely affects clinical performance, decision-making, and personal well-being. In Sudan, medical doctors face unique stressors, including political instability and extended working hours; however, burnout remains an under-investigated area. This study aims to determine the prevalence of burnout among Sudanese medical doctors, identify its contributing factors, assess its impact on well-being, and explore effective coping mechanisms. A cross-sectional study was conducted using a convenience sample of Sudanese medical doctors. Data collected electronically via standardized questionnaires, capturing demographic information, work-related variables, and burnout symptoms. Data analysis was performed using SPSS to determine burnout prevalence and associated factors. Ethical approval was obtained from Alzaiem Alazhari University. Among the 105 participating doctors, the mean age was 28 years; the majority were female (75.2%) and single (74.3%). Specialists constituted (54.3%) of the sample. Most participants worked 6–12 hours daily, with a significant proportion exceeding 12 hours. While the majority handled fewer than 20 cases per day, a minority reported a high patient load. Key burnout indicators revealed a moderate to high perceived workload (Mean = 10.32, SD = 2.092), low work engagement (Mean = 1.27, SD = 1.085), and a compromised work-life balance (Mean = 5.40, SD = 2.737). The most common physical symptoms were fatigue (62.9%) and headaches (58.1%). Emotional exhaustion (28.6%) and insomnia (22.9%) were also prevalent, while loss of appetite (17.1%), feelings of ineffectiveness (13.3%), and cynicism (3.8%) were reported by smaller but notable proportions. The findings indicate a moderate prevalence of burnout among Sudanese medical doctors, primarily driven by long working hours, high patient loads, and limited engagement in restorative activities. The concurrent pursuit of academic advancement amidst these stressors likely exacerbates emotional exhaustion. This study underscores the urgent need for institutional mental health support, increased awareness, and the implementation of structured coping strategies to mitigate burnout and enhance the overall well-being and professional performance of doctors in Sudan.