Title:The Prevalence and Determinants of Musculoskeletal Disorders among Taxi Drivers In Ajman, UAE
Volume: 5
Author(s): Mariam ElSayed Mohmmed, Lina Rabah ElSayed*, Manar AlNabilsi and Jayakumary Muttappallymyalil
Affiliation:
- College of Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, UAE
Keywords:
Taxi drivers, Musculoskeletal disorders, Age, Pain, Accident, Back pain.
Abstract:
Introduction:
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among the most common occupational diseases, especially in professions requiring prolonged static posture,
such as taxi driving. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of MSDs and associated factors among taxi drivers in Ajman, UAE.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 354 taxi drivers using an interviewer-administered questionnaire that included sociodemographic,
occupational, and lifestyle factors. The standardized Nordic Questionnaire assessed MSDs over the past 12 months and 7 days. Chi-square tests,
followed by simple and multiple logistic regression, were used to analyze associations. Statistical significance was set at p≤0.05.
Results:
The 12-month prevalence of MSDs was 42%, and the 7-day prevalence was 49%. Lower back pain was most common (33.1%), followed by
shoulder (16%), neck (12.4%), and knee (12.3%) pain. MSDs were significantly associated with drivers aged ≤30 years. Most participants drove
≥10 hours daily (92.7%), and 26% had a history of chronic disease.
Discussion:
The 12-month prevalence of MSDs was 42%, and the 7-day prevalence was 49%. Lower back pain was most common (33.1%), followed by
shoulder (16%), neck (12.4%), and knee (12.3%) pain. MSDs were significantly associated with drivers aged ≤30 years. Most participants drove
≥10 hours daily (92.7%), and 26% had a history of chronic disease.
Conclusion:
The 12-month prevalence of MSDs was 42%, and the 7-day prevalence was 49%. Lower back pain was most common (33.1%), followed by
shoulder (16%), neck (12.4%), and knee (12.3%) pain. MSDs were significantly associated with drivers aged ≤30 years. Most participants drove
≥10 hours daily (92.7%), and 26% had a history of chronic disease.
