Prevalence and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among male bus drivers in a mega-city

Abstract

BackgroundBus drivers are a high-risk group for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). There are a large number of bus drivers in mega-cities. High volumes of passenger traffic and complexity of road conditions may elevate their risk of WMSDs, but there are few studies related to this group. ObjectiveTo investigate the prevalence of WMSDs among bus drivers in a mega-city and to analyze potential influencing factors. MethodsBased on cross-sectional study design and self-administered questionnaire, the prevalence of WMSDs in past 12 months were estimated by stratified cluster sampling among bus drivers in a mega-city. Pearson χ2 and logistic regression models were used to analyze the influencing factors for the body regions with a high prevalence. ResultsThe overall prevalence of WMSDs in past 12 months among bus drivers in a mega-city was 49.5% (551/1113). The prevalence of WMSDs by body regions ranged from 4.0% to 38.5%, and led by neck pain (38.5%), lower back pain (25.5%), and shoulder pain (20.8%). The results of logistic regression showed that the risk factors for neck pain were age (>50 years), smoking, tiredness after work (moderate, severe), long sitting (frequently), awkward postures (sometimes, often, frequently), overtime(occasionally, often), workplace temperature (uncomfortable), and noise (severe) (OR=2.014、1.577、2.793、3.025、2.708、2.032、3.406、2.746、1.442、2.998、1.456、3.506；P50 years), smoking, tiredness after work (moderate, severe), vehicle type (hybrid power, diesel oil), awkward postures (often, frequently), overtime (often), and workplace temperature (uncomfortable) (OR=1.737、2.357、1.553、2.259、2.489、1.659、3.295、2.777、3.320、2.266、1.426，P<0.05). Identified protective factors for neck and lower back pain were off-duty physical activity (1-2 times per week, and ≥3 times per week) (OR=0.553、0.470、0.586、0.485，P<0.05). ConclusionNearly half of the bus drivers in the mega-city report symptoms of WMSDs, mainly in the neck, lower back, and shoulders. The prevalence is related to individual and occupational factors, and prevention and intervention measures should be actively taken.

Keywords

• work-related musculoskeletal disorder
• mega-city
• bus driver
• risk factor