Prevalence and Determinants of Musculoskeletal Disorders among Information Technology Sector Employees of Ahmedabad, Gujarat

Abstract

Employees of Information Technology (IT) sectors are always at higher risk of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs), as multiple risk facors known to be associated with MSDs like poorly designed computer work station, lack of knowledge and attitude for ergonomic posture, long working hours with out sufficient rest breaks and sadentory life style are common in IT workers of India. Aim:To study association of MSDs with occupational and lifestyle related factors. Methodology: For execution of present cross sectional study, from Ahmedabad (Gujarat, India) based IT industry 184 employees of were enrolled through simple random sampling method. With the usage of pre-tested semiclosed questionnaire sociodemographic, life style and occupation related details were collected. Prevalence of MSDs for different body parts assessed though Modified Nordic Questionnaire. Rapid Office Strain Assessment (ROSA) score was used for assessment of ergonomic suitability of workstation. SPSS 17.0 software was used for detailed statistical analysis. Result: Among IT workers high prevalence of MSDs (66.8%) was observed. Highest prevalence of MSDs reported for lower back (32.6%), neck (32.1%) and upper back (29.9%). Association of MSDs were observed with their Body Mass Index (BMI), exercise habit and job tenure of the workers. Poor ergonomic design (ROSA score > 4) of computer work station and usage of laptop (compared to desktop) were found associated with high prevalence of MSDs. Conclusion: To reduce burden of MSDs, administrative interventions in terms of improving workstation design and regulation of work hours required. Also, training programmes for sensitization regarding workplace ergonomics and healthy life style to be arranged for IT workes.