Prevalence and risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal pain among flight attendants: A comparative study

BackgroundFlight attendants (FAs) are subject to unique occupational demands, increasing their risk of developing work-related musculoskeletal pain (WRMSP). WRMSP is influenced by physical, psychosocial, and demographic factors that may change over time due to evolving work environments and practices.ObjectivesCompare the prevalence of FAs' WRMSP in 2016 vs 2024; Identify key physical and psychosocial predictors of WRMSP in each period; explore implications for ergonomic interventions and health promotion strategies tailored to the aviation work environment.MethodsTwo cross-sectional cohorts of FAs, from 2016 (n = 94) and 2024 (n = 89), completed identical, validated questionnaires using the same sampling frame. Surveys covered demographics, occupational tasks, region-specific pain, and psychosocial factors.ResultsArm and hand pain were less prevalent in 2024. Logistic regressions showed higher odds of neck pain in 2024 associated with stress, attitudes, and satisfaction, but markedly lower odds of arm pain across psychosocial and task factors. Lower back pain was less predicted in 2024 when satisfaction was considered. Across both years, hand pain increased with workload and oven-loading but decreased with age and authority; finger pain rose with effort; upper back pain with BMI and time pressure; shoulder pain with dissatisfaction; elbow pain with standing.ConclusionsTechnological and organizational changes appear to have contributed to reduced arm and hand pain and to lower back pain being less predicted in 2024, while psychosocial stressors were linked to increased neck pain, underscoring the dual impact of ergonomic improvements and persistent organizational pressures on WRMSP.