Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders among Kasr-Alainy Hospital Medical Students

Abstract

Background :Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are significant health issues affecting a great majority of individuals and highly prevalent among medical university students. It has various modifiable risk factors.

Objectives: To assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among Medical University students and determine their associated factors.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2018 until September 2019. It included 370 students selected by stratified random sample. A structured questionnaire was used consisting of socio-demographic characteristics, Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, and Global Physical Activity Questionnaire.

Results:Eighty-two percent of the students had musculoskeletal disorders during the past 12 months. These disorders were significantly higher among students with positive family history, practice low level of physical activity or inactive, sitting a long time in stretch position and long study hours p<0.01.

Conclusion :The prevalence of MSDs among the students was high interfering with their work and attending lectures. It can lead to long-term complications and negatively compromise their quality of life and academic achievement. Authorities have to be aware of this health issue so they can set control measures, cost-effective national interventions, and programs.