Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and associated factors among University of Zimbabwe Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences non-academic workers: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Work-related musculoskeletal disorders most commonly contribute to years lived with disability among workers. Heavy physical work, static work posture, awkward posture, force exertion, lifting and repetitive movements increase the risk of developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Objectives The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and associated factors among non-academic workers at the University of Zimbabwe Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Non-academic workers included security personnel, catering staff, drivers, library staff, clerical staff, technicians and janitorial staff. Methods and materials The study used a cross-sectional analytical design. One hundred and eight non-academic workers at the University of Zimbabwe Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences were sampled through proportional stratified sampling in January 2021. An adapted Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire capturing socio-demographics and ergonomic risk factors was used to gather data. SPSS v24 was used for data analysis including frequencies, tests of association and multivariate logistic regression. Results One hundred non-academic workers from the University of Zimbabwe Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences responded. The 3-month and 12-month prevalences of work-related musculoskeletal disorders were highest in the lower back ( n = 72, 72% and n = 75, 75%) and wrists/hands ( n = 60, 60% and n = 69, 69%) respectively. Sociodemographic factors such as age ( p = 0.002), gender ( p < 0.001), educational level ( p = 0.008) and worker category ( p < 0.001) were associated with increased work-related musculoskeletal disorders, while work experience ( p = 0.002) was associated with a decreased prevalence of back pain and discomfort. Females (AOR = 55.90; 95% CI [3.84, 814.54]), security personnel (AOR = 39.53, 95% CI [1.57, 996.00]), catering staff (AOR = 91.3295% CI [2.24, 3724.78]) and those who attained bachelor’s degrees (AOR = 73.25, 95% CI [1.46, 3682.39]), higher national diplomas (AOR = 93.49, 95% CI [1.28, 6848.04]) and national diplomas (AOR = 52.22; 95% CI [1.09, 2510.73]) had higher odds of experiencing WMSDs. Increased working experience was protective against experiencing lower back pain (AOR = 0.84; 95% CI [0.74, 0.95]). Discussion and conclusion The prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders was high among the participants. This was influenced by the nature of work as well as cultural factors. Recommendations Occupational therapists and physiotherapists need to design focused ameliorative and health promotive interventions targeting at-risk populations in universities. Employers should consider developing wellness programs for workers and promoting healthy working environments.