Musculoskeletal pain and work-related risk factors among waste collectors in Hanoi, Vietnam: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders are prevalent among waste collectors in developing countries. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and risk factors of persistent musculoskeletal disorders among waste collectors in Hanoi, Vietnam. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was utilized to study 331 waste collectors in 2017. The Örebro Musculoskeletal Pain Questionnaire and questionnaires on demographic and working conditions were used to collect data. Descriptive and linear regression analyses were applied at the significant level p<0.05. Results: Results showed that the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among waste collectors in Hanoi was high (100%), multiple-site musculoskeletal disorders (at least two sites) were reported by 81%. Lower back was the most affected site, followed by pain in the neck and shoulders. The risk of persistent musculoskeletal disorders were higher amongst female workers, workers with the neck bent at an angle of 45 0 , kneeling, repetitive medial rotation while walking, and feeling dissatisfaction with work, stress or anxiety during one week before the survey. Conclusions: Hanoian waste collectors were suffered from musculoskeletal disorders as the results of unfavorable work postures and psychological stress at work. The findings imply the need of mechanical and social support at work for waste collectors to prevent the development of musculoskeletal disorders.