Musculoskeletal Discomforts Among Female Agricultural Workers: A Cross-Sectional Study In Rural West Bengal, India

Abstract

Introduction:

Musculoskeletal discomforts (MSDs) and Quality of Life (QoL) are solely connected to each other. It has been rising as a global phenomenon between workers of different fields. This study was carried out to the prevalence of MSDs and its impact on QoL among rural women.

Material and Methods:

This cross-sectional study among 114 females (57 agricultural workers and 57 housewives) in rural West Bengal, India. Data was collected using standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal and WHOQOL-BREF questionnaires.

Results:

Statistical analyses showed that agricultural workers had a significantly higher prevalence of MSDs than housewives. These women showed much higher odds of pain in the upper back (OR=6.12; p<0.01), low back (OR=5.99; p<0.05), elbows (OR=5.99; p<0.01) and especially the hips/thighs (OR=21.86; p<0.001). Prevalence of MSDs was linked to a significantly lower QoL. Participants with MSDs reported significant lesser physical, psychological and environmental health (p<0.001).

Conclusion:

This study revealed that female agricultural workers are at high risk for work-related MSDs which severely reduces their overall QoL.