F-122 | Impact of Iron-Deficiency Anemia on In-Hospital Outcomes in Stress Cardiomyopathy: Insights from a National Cohort

Background: Interventional cardiologists routinely perform procedures that involve prolonged standing, repetitive hand movements, and awkward postures, often while wearing heavy lead aprons.These occupational demands contribute significantly to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), affecting physician health and career longevity.Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among interventional cardiologists.Participants completed a detailed ergonomics questionnaire evaluating posture, equipment layout, physical strain, and MSD symptoms.Additionally, procedural environments were assessed for ergonomic compliance using standardized checklists Results: Of the cardiologists surveyed, 67% reported experiencing work-related musculoskeletal pain, primarily in the neck, lower back, and shoulders.Key ergonomic deficiencies included poor monitor positioning, non-adjustable table heights, and prolonged static postures.Only 17% of respondents felt that their current procedure suite supported best ergonomic practices.Notably, none of the participants had received formal training in ergonomics or human factors engineering relevant to procedural work.The study also revealed a general lack of awareness and institutional support for ergonomic improvements.Conclusions: Ergonomic challenges are widespread in interventional cardiology and contribute to a high prevalence of MSDs.Addressing these issues through equipment redesign, ergonomic education, and institutional policy reform is critical.Implementing adjustable workstations, promoting posture awareness, and integrating ergonomic principles into training programs can improve physician well-being and procedural efficiency.Future research should explore the longterm impact of ergonomic interventions on physician health and career sustainability.