Anaesthetists are widely known for being exposed to high levels of stress and burnout [1]. This can increase the risk of medical errors, strained doctor-patient relationships and have a negative impact on both physical and mental well-being [2], potentially even contributing to suicide [3,4].

Since 2016, an effort has been made by the World Federation of Societies of Anaesthetists (WFSA) with the launch of the Campaign for Occupational Well-being on World Anaesthesia [5]. Identifying specific stressors [6] and reducing exposure to them have been a priority in recent years, including in the Portuguese anaesthesiology population. [2,7,8]. These studies concluded that high stress levels among anaesthetists have a multifactorial etiology, and multiple strategies, including structural changes, should be implemented. Previous surveys assessing stress and its components have already been applied to Portuguese anaesthetists. The study concluded that female gender and frequent work in emergency settings were associated with higher stress levels. Conversely, working exclusively in the private sector lowered stress levels. [7]. Also, a 2006 Portuguese study among Portuguese anaesthetists reported that 57.9 % of participants experienced emotional exhaustion, 44.8 % reported a lack of personal accomplishment, and 90.9 % exhibited depersonalisation [8]. Another study aimed to evaluate burnout syndrome prevalence among Portuguese anaesthetist trainees: 30 % of trainees exhibited high levels of work-related burnout, and 32.5 % showed high levels of personal burnout. Women had a higher prevalence of burnout in comparison to men [9].

Nonetheless, a Dutch survey found that psychological distress and burnout are highly prevalent in trainees and consultant anaesthetists and that both are strongly linked to personality traits. [10]. Another possible approach to addressing this issue is the promotion of strategies that focus on enhancing coping skills and resilience to potentially reduce perceived stress felt by the anaesthetists [2].

As it is well-known, physical activity is a highly effective coping mechanism for reducing perceived stress and burnout. [[11], [12], [13]]. The American Heart Association Guidelines recommend getting at least 150 min per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 min per week of vigorous aerobic activity, or a combination of both, preferably spread throughout the week, to promote cardiovascular and overall health [14]. A study conducted among Portuguese physicians concluded that physical activity levels vary across specialties, with approximately 28 % across all specialties not meeting these recommendations of the American Heart Association (AHA) [15]. Despite these established guidelines, there is a lack of research specifically addressing the physical activity habits of Portuguese anaesthetists. To the best of our knowledge, no study has focused on this population, highlighting a gap in understanding the impact of physical activity on their well-being and stress levels.

Additionally, several studies have concluded that regular physical exercise effectively reduces stress among anaesthetist populations in various countries [[16], [17], [18]].

The significance of this study lies in the need to identify and implement strategies that promote mental health and well-being among anaesthetists [19]. In line with the World Federation of Societies of Anaesthetists (WFSA) initiative Campaign for Occupational Well-being [5], we aimed to assess whether promoting physical exercise could be a key strategy where efforts should be made to improve the quality of life among these Portuguese anaesthetists and reduce their stress levels. To the best of our knowledge, there are no National studies that relate stress to physical activity.

Aims of the study [1]: To assess the level of physical activity and perceived stress among Portuguese anaesthetists and establish a relationship between them and [2] to identify potential professional or personal barriers to exercise.