Musculoskeletal disorders among bank workers: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Public Health
• Ergonomics

Background:

• Bank employees face elevated risks of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) from prolonged sitting and static postures.
• Sedentary work environments contribute significantly to the development of MSDs in this professional group.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and meta-analyze the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among bank employees.
• To quantify the overall burden of MSDs within the banking sector workforce.

Main Methods:

• Adherence to PRISMA guidelines with a registered protocol (PROSPERO CRD42024509728).
• Comprehensive literature search across multiple databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, etc.) until February 7th, 2024.
• Random effects meta-analysis and heterogeneity assessment using I2 index, with data analyzed in STATA v14.

Main Results:

• A total of 28 studies were included in the meta-analysis, synthesizing data from 1837 initially identified studies.
• The pooled prevalence of MSDs among bank employees was found to be 67.84% (95% CI: 61.21-74.47).
• Specific high prevalence rates were observed in the low back (49.19%), neck (46.11%), and upper back (42.08%).

Conclusions:

• The high prevalence of MSDs underscores the occupational health risks associated with sedentary banking roles.
• Recommendations include increasing employee awareness of MSD risk factors and implementing interventions to reduce sitting time.
• Ergonomic workstation adjustments are vital for preventing MSDs in bank employees.