Epidemiology of Musculoskeletal Disorders among the Teaching Staff of the University of Douala, Cameroon: Association with Physical Activity Practice.

Archipe Mohamadou Tami,Peguy Brice Assomo Ndemba,Abdou Temfemo,Bienvenu Bongue,Clarisse Noel Ayina Ayina,Léon Jules Owona Manga,Nathalie Barth,Wiliam Richard Guessogo,Samuel Honoré Mandengue,Marie-Yvonne Lobe Tanga,Elysée Claude Bika Lele,Jerson Mekoulou Ndongo

doi:10.3390/ijerph18116004

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the epidemiology of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among the teaching staff of the University of Douala and determine their association with physical activity (PA) practice. The Nordic questionnaire was used to assess MSDs. Ricci–Gagnon questionnaire was used to determine the level of PA. We recruited 104 participants mean-aged 42 ± 8 years, 80% male. Previous 7 days and 12 months prevalence were 56.7% and 80.8%, respectively. The most affected body regions were neck, shoulders and lower back. No significant association was found between MSDs and PA. Celibacy was significantly associated with previous 7-days MSDs (p = 0.048) while age ≥ 45 years and job seniority ≥ 10 years were significantly associated with a reduced risk of previous 12-months MSDs (p = 0.039 and p = 0.016, respectively). The prevalence of MSDs among university of Douala teaching staff showed no significant effect with the practice of PA.

Highlights

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are considered one of the most prevalent occupational health problems [1]
The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) amongst the teaching staff of the University of Douala and the impact of physical activity level on musculoskeletal complaints
The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of MSDs and for possible association between MSDs and physical activity among university teachers

Summary

Introduction

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are considered one of the most prevalent occupational health problems [1]. The musculoskeletal system is tough, but when exposed to infections, aging, heavy work load, repetitive stress, metabolic disorders and other factors, this causes tissue injuries [2,3,4]. These injuries lead initially to an inflammatory response to pains and loss of motor function as an end result [4]. According to the WHO, in 2019 musculoskeletal conditions were the leading cause of disabilities worldwide and accounted for the greatest proportion of loss of productivity at the workplace [2].

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Methods

Discussion

Conclusion