Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among vegetable greenhouse workers / 预防医学

ABSTRACT

Objective@#To investigate the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) and influencing factors among vegetable greenhouse workers, so as to provide insights into relevant intervention measurements.@*Methods@#Workers from 4 vegetable greenhouse villages were sampled in the suburbs of Xining City using a cluster sampling method from March to April 2023. Participants' demographic information, characteristics of greenhouse operation and prevalence of WMSDs were collected using questionnaire surveys. Factors affecting the prevalence of WMSDs among vegetable greenhouse workers were identified using a multivariable logistic regression model.@*Results@#A total of 550 questionnaires were distributed, and 518 valid questionnaires were recovered, with an effective response rate of 94.18%. There were 264 males (50.97%) and 254 females (49.03%), and 269 participants (51.93%) aged 50 years and older. The prevalence of WMSDs among vegetable greenhouse workers was 40.93% (212 cases). Waist, neck and back were mainly affected, with 185 (35.71%), 157 (30.31%), and 153 (29.54%) cases, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that workers who smoke (OR=2.406, 95%CI: 1.133-5.110), worked 8 hours and longer per day (OR=6.618, 95%CI: 3.492-12.542) and lift heavy loads of about 20 kg (OR=1.770, 95%CI: 1.013-3.092) had a higher risk of WMSDs.@*Conclusions@#WMSDs occurred in 40.93% of vegetable greenhouse workers in Xining City, and waist, neck and back were mainly affected. Smoking, working duration and lifting heavy loads may influence the prevalence of WMSDs among vegetable greenhouse workers in Xining City.