Hair Cortisol/DHEA-S Ratios in Healthcare Workers and Their Patients During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Author Information
Author(s): Pividori Isabella, Peric Tanja, Comin Antonella, Cotticelli Alessio, Corazzin Mirco, Prandi Alberto, Mascolo Massimo Domenico, Verduri Alessia
Primary Institution: Department of Agricultural, Food, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine
Hypothesis
The study aims to examine the hair cortisol/DHEA-S ratios as markers of HPA axis dysregulation in healthcare workers and their patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Conclusion
The study found that patients had significantly higher cortisol/DHEA-S ratios than healthcare workers, indicating greater stress and reduced coping ability.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients had significantly higher cortisol concentrations than healthcare workers.
- The cortisol/DHEA-S ratio was found to be a useful marker for identifying stress levels.
- Healthcare workers maintained better hormonal balance compared to patients during the pandemic.
- The study highlights the importance of monitoring stress in healthcare settings.
- High cortisol/DHEA-S ratios in patients suggest a greater degree of stress.
- Lower DHEA-S concentrations were observed in patients compared to healthcare workers.
- The findings indicate potential risks for mental and physical health in both groups.
- Further research is needed to explore the long-term implications of these findings.
Takeaway
This study looked at stress hormones in hair to see how stressed healthcare workers and their patients were during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methodology
The study measured hormone concentrations in hair samples from 200 healthcare workers and 161 patients using a radioimmunoassay.
Limitations
Only a single measure of hair was performed, and additional psychological and lifestyle factors were not assessed.
Participant Demographics
Patients were older (mean age 74) and had chronic illnesses; healthcare workers were younger (mean age 53).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.001
Statistical Significance
p < 0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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