Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among professional bread-making workers in India

Background: The occurrence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) due to workplace factors is not well described in bread making workers, an understudied population globally. However, the task is very repetitive and exhaustive in nature. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and its associated risk factors among bread making workers. Methods: WMSD symptoms in past 12 months using a self-modified musculoskeletal questionnaire (Nordic Questionnaire), were assessed in 229 bread making workers from District Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India. Chi-square tests and binary logistic regression were performed to analyze associations of MSD related to task variables. Results: The results showed 149 (65.1%) participants reported MSD symptoms with prevalence in shoulder (n = 107, 46.7%), buttock (n = 87, 37.9%) and lower arm (n = 69, 30.1%). Duration of heat exposure per day significantly affects lower arm region (p = 0.027), hand (p = 0.032) and lower back (p = 0.029). Types of equipment significantly affected hand, neck, and shoulder discomfort (p <0.05). Workers involved in making both dough and bread were at higher risk of discomfort in middle back (OR = 2.106) and thighs (OR = 2.022). Workers using tandoor (fire pits) were at higher risk of discomfort in shoulder (OR = 1.541) and upper arm (OR = 2.61). Conclusion: The results showed a high prevalence of WMSD among bread making workers, with the shoulder, buttock and lower arm being the most affected body parts. Exposure of this workforce to ergonomic hazards and WMSDs increases the urgent need for public policy to address work strategies that protect workers and place this issue at the top of occupational health priorities.