Open AccessPrevalence of fatigue among postgraduate trainees in the United States and Japan
Author(s) -
Kato Hirotaka,
Burger Alfred P.,
Emoto Ken,
Sakama Reiko,
Uehara Yuki,
Segon Ankur,
Lin Jenny J.
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
journal of general and family medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2189-7948
DOI - 10.1002/jgf2.280
Subject(s) - medicine , family medicine , medical education , physical therapy
Background The difference in prevalence of fatigue among postgraduate trainees between the United States and Japan is unknown. Methods A cross‐sectional survey using Iowa Fatigue Scale was administered on postgraduate trainees in two internal medicine residency programs in New York and five postgraduate residency programs in Japan. Results Of the 393 trainees, 135 (34%) completed the survey. Seventy‐seven (57%) were US trainees. Both fatigue (42% vs 81%) and severe fatigue (4% vs 19%) were more prevalent in Japan ( P < .01). US trainees felt more productive during work hours but less fatigued. Conclusions Fatigue was more prevalent among postgraduate trainees in Japan.