Yup, definitely more competitive. The competition, though, is more a change in demographics, than actual spots/applicant. More US allo are appplying, edging out a good number of DO's. Furthermore, IMG's were heavily concentrated in this field (about 7-10 yrs ago), and they're being edged out by the US applicants that think anesthesia is a lifestyle specialty. Hence the overall match rate has remained at around 95% or so over the last few years, but there has definitley been a change in the demographic. This info can be confirmed at the ASA website where they list the match statistics for previous yrs. Personally, from the other grads from about 3 classes, and I that are applying this year there is about a 30% interest in anesthesia. I spoke to the student coordinator, and she said that over the last few years, there has been a tremendous increase in the interest in anesthesiology. Furthermore, she also said that there has been a corresponding decrease in the number of IMG's matching. We spoke further, and when I mentioned that the hours out of work can be controlled ...blah, blah, blah... they make relatively good $$, she kind of said "it figures."
BTW, didn't mean to strike a nerve on the other thread. I just get tired of other people going out of their way to make themselves good at the expense of others.
Anyhow, hope I answered the question... flex.