Prevalence and multivariate analysis of risk factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders among automotive...

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a leading cause of occupational morbidity. This study investigates the prevalence and associated factors of MSDs across nine body regions among automotive parts assembly workers, considering demographic characteristics, mental workload, and Structured Multidisciplinary work Evaluation Tool (SMET) questionnaire components.

The cross-sectional study included 211 workers (41.2% female; mean age 33.9 ± 6.9 years). Demographic data, mental workload National Aeronautics and Space Administration-Task Load Index (NASA-TLX), and SMET questionnaire components (physical, environmental, and psychosocial demands) were collected. The Extended Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was used to assess MSD prevalence. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses identified significant predictors.

The lifetime prevalence of MSDs was highest in the neck (44.5%) and lower back (44.1%), with the lowest rates in the elbow (6.8%) and hip/thigh (14.2%). Multivariate analyses revealed significant predictors of MSD prevalence. For neck disorders, male sex (OR = 0.361), smoking status (OR = 3.437), surgical history (OR = 2.800), total mental workload (OR = 1.032), and physical demand (OR = 1.396) were key contributors. Shoulder disorders were associated with smoking (OR = 2.542) and illness history (OR = 2.380), whereas upper back disorders were linked to illness history (OR = 3.287) and physical demand (OR = 1.663). Gender-specific vulnerabilities were evident in the hip/thigh and knee regions, with male gender being a significant predictor (hip/thigh: OR = 4.833; knee: OR = 2.711). Surgical history and psychosocial demands are critical factors for ankle/foot disorders.

MSDs in assembly line workers result from the interaction of demographic, physical, and psychological factors.