Barcelona, Spain – February 2025 – Burnout among oncologists has reached alarming levels, prompting healthcare leaders to take urgent action. The European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Resilience Task Force recently hosted a two-day workshop on January 31 and February 1 in Barcelona to address this critical issue. The meeting focused on practical strategies to improve well-being and reduce burnout among European oncologists and healthcare professionals.
A Growing Concern in Oncology
Burnout is a major challenge in the medical profession, particularly in oncology. A 2025 survey presented at the meeting highlighted that up to 84% of oncologists experience burnout, a condition classified as an occupational phenomenon by the World Health Organization (WHO). The stress of patient care, long hours, and emotional toll significantly impact oncologists’ mental health and career longevity.
“Oncologists worldwide face immense psychological and emotional stress, which affects their well-being and, ultimately, patient care,” said Dr. Susana Banerjee, chair of the ESMO Resilience Task Force and consultant medical oncologist at The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust. “This workshop was essential in identifying key strategies to support our professionals.”
Key Takeaways from the ESMO Workshop
The event featured discussions on the latest findings from ESMO’s published recommendations in ESMO Open, focusing on managing psychosocial risks and enhancing resilience in oncology. The meeting provided an action plan to address the crisis, with three core pillars:
1. Training and Development for Oncologists
- Enhancing education programs to equip oncologists with skills to manage stress.
- Implementing workshops and mentorship programs for career sustainability.
- Providing psychological support services within oncology institutions.
2. Prioritizing Mental and Physical Well-Being
- Establishing clear workload management policies.
- Encouraging mental health days and flexible schedules.
- Creating a culture of openness around seeking psychological support.
3. Advocacy and Institutional Responsibility
- Engaging scientific organizations such as ESMO, national medical societies, and hospitals to implement structural changes.
- Promoting well-being initiatives at the policy level to ensure long-term impact.
- Encouraging peer support networks and workplace mental health resources.
Burnout’s Wider Impact on Healthcare
During the workshop, Dr. Jonathan Lim, consultant oncologist at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, presented data revealing that one in four oncologists has considered leaving the profession due to burnout. The consequences extend beyond physicians—pharmacists, nurses, and other medical staff also experience high levels of exhaustion, leading to understaffing and increased medical errors.
“The effects of burnout are far-reaching,” Dr. Lim noted. “It doesn’t just impact the physician’s health; it compromises patient care, team dynamics, and overall healthcare efficiency.”
Tackling ‘Impostor Syndrome’ in Oncology
A major theme at the workshop was the prevalence of impostor syndrome among oncologists. Dr. Enes Erul, an oncology fellow at Ankara University Cancer Research Institute, emphasized that even highly skilled professionals struggle with self-doubt, which can contribute to burnout.
Key solutions to address impostor syndrome include:
- Encouraging self-compassion and setting realistic goals.
- Providing resilience training and mentorship programs.
- Fostering a supportive work environment that normalizes seeking help.
Looking Ahead: A Call for Systemic Change
The workshop concluded with a call for sustained efforts in combating burnout. Healthcare institutions, policymakers, and professional organizations must collaborate to implement these strategies effectively.
For oncologists and healthcare professionals seeking additional support, Daljoog News provides resources and expert insights on mental well-being in the medical field. As the conversation on burnout continues, ongoing research and systemic change will be key to safeguarding the future of oncology professionals and ensuring high-quality patient care.