Análisis de los efectos del estrés psicosocial en el entorno laboral sobre el sistema inmunológico en docentes universitarios.

Abstract

Psychosocial stress in the university work environment represents a growing threat to the overall health of teaching staff. This study aimed to analyze the effects of psychosocial stress on the immune system in professors from the Faculty of Chemical and Health Sciences, as well as from other departments at the Technical University of Machala. A questionnaire based on the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) model was administered to 61 professors, followed by hematological analysis for those who presented a moderate or high risk of burnout syndrome. The results indicated that 65.6% of the professors had a low level of risk, 18% moderate, and 16.4% high risk. Of the 21 professors at moderate and high risk, 15 agreed to undergo a white blood cell count analysis. The values obtained were: white blood cells 6.8×10³/μL, neutrophils 53.0%, lymphocytes 35.3%, and monocytes 7.6% all within the physiological range. Although no significant immunological alterations were detected, individual variations were observed that could be associated with sustained emotional exhaustion. The null hypothesis was validated, as no statistical evidence of a direct relationship between psychosocial stress and hematological changes was found. However, mild trends were identified in professors with greater emotional exhaustion and lower personal accomplishment, suggesting a possible subclinical immune response to prolonged stress. It was concluded that the study did not establish a statistically significant association between psychosocial stress and hematological alterations, thereby validating the null hypothesis. Nonetheless, the importance of further research with larger samples and complementary tests is recognized, to evaluate potential long-term effects. Additionally, the implementation of preventive strategies and emotional support programs aimed at the comprehensive well-being of teaching staff is recommended.