Association Between Risk Factors and Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Laboratory Professionals - an European Perspective

BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a wide group of diseases that severely affect work productivity and quality of life. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine the differences in the prevalence of MSDs among laboratory professionals (LPs) and to assess their association with individual, psychosocial, and occupational risk factors. METHODS: In a multicenter, cross-sectional study, a questionnaire was distributed online through professional association networks. Participants were divided into two groups based on their territorial affiliation - European Union (EU) and non-EU member states. Descriptive and inferential statistics were included in the analysis, and statistical significance was set at ≤0.05. RESULTS: A total of 640 LPs from 20 European countries participated in the study, predominantly females (78.4%), with university degree (59.4%) and a mean age of 41.2 ± 10.1 years. Statistically significant differences between groups were confirmed for several variables studied: neck flexion > 15° (p = 0.008), hands at chest level (p = 0.000), prolonged screen time, and sitting (p = 0.000). One-third of participants reported wrist (35.6%), shoulder (32.7%), and elbow (31.6%) pain, while low back pain was more common (48.9%). A statistically significant association was confirmed between the incidence of MSDs and stress at work, repetitive motions, and prolonged standing (p = 0.000). Several variables showed significant correlations with MSDs in different body parts (p <0.05). CONCLUSION: Our results show a higher prevalence of MSDs in LPs and we recommend urgent development of targeted prevention programs and additional measures to modify the work environment and organizational activities.