Which Factors Influence School Backpack Use Behaviours in Elementary School Students for Prevention Musculoskeletal...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Pediatrics
• Ergonomics

Background:

• School backpacks are prevalent for carrying student supplies.
• Excessive backpack weight is linked to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in children.
• Parental involvement is crucial for ensuring appropriate backpack use and preventing MSDs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify factors influencing backpack use behaviors in elementary students.
• To examine the relationship between these factors and the prevalence of MSDs.
• To apply the Health Belief Model (HBM) to understand student backpack behaviors.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 500 elementary students and their parents in Hamadan, Iran.
• Data collected via HBM-based questionnaires, Cornell questionnaire, and observation checklist.
• Statistical analysis performed using SPSS and AMOS v.24.

Main Results:

• 6.5% of students reported MSDs; 13% experienced neck pain.
• Significant associations found between MSDs and body mass index, school area, and perceived susceptibility.
• Self-efficacy and perceived benefits positively correlated with correct backpack use behaviors; perceived severity and cues to action showed negative correlations.

Conclusions:

• Multiple factors, including HBM constructs, influence student backpack behaviors and MSD risk.
• Educational interventions for students and parents on correct backpack usage are essential.
• Improving school-based educational strategies can help prevent MSDs related to backpack use.