ArticleBMC public health2026
Prevalence, health burden, and occupational risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among informal automobile repair artisans in Sunyani Municipality, Ghana: a cross-sectional study.
Article in BMC public health, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Abstract
backgroundWork-related musculoskeletal disorders are one of the major causes of disability globally. There is a lack of evidence in the Ghanaian context, especially in smaller urban areas and various auto-related trades carried out in the same clusters of informal workshops. This study evaluated the prevalence, health burden, and occupational risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among automobile repair artisans in the Sunyani Municipality of Ghana.
methodA cross-sectional study was carried out among 271 informal auto repair artisans in the Sunyani Municipality between November and December 2025. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that included the Standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, work-related ergonomic exposure questions, and quality-of-life questions. Factors associated with the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in 12 months were determined using multivariable logistic regression. Disability-adjusted life years were calculated using the Global Burden of Disease method. Analysis was done using Stata version 17. Significance was set at p < 0.05.
resultsThe study involved 271 participants, predominantly male (95.9%), with a median age of 33 years. Most were young adults aged 18-29 (40.6%). The prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders was 52.1%. The most affected body parts were the lower back (42.8%), shoulders (32.5%), and upper back (26.6%). Frequent bending/twisting (94.8%), standing for prolonged periods (83.4%), repetitive hand/wrist movements (73.4%), and the use of vibrating tools (66.8%) were common risk factors. In adjusted analyses, having height 1.67-1.81 m (aOR = 3.42, 95% CI: 1.43-8.18), monthly income GHS 1501-2000 (aOR = 4.61, 95% CI: 1.69-12.58), use of vibrating tools (aOR = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.31-0.99), and job dissatisfaction (aOR = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.05-0.66) were independently associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Total disability-adjusted life years lost were 62.21, with mechanics and welders contributing the highest shares.
conclusionWork-related musculoskeletal disorders impose a substantial health and productivity burden on automobile repair artisans. Modifiable ergonomic and organizational factors to compensate for the height and increased number of daily tasks are key to preventing injuries and focusing on health surveillance among automobile repair artisans in Ghana.
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