The prevalence of occupational musculoskeletal disorders in Iran: A meta-analysis study.

BACKGROUND: Prevention of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) is crucial as they jeopardize the well-being of the workforce in workplaces and are prevalent in developed and developing countries.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of WRMSDs among Iranian workers.

METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis of WRMSDs in Iran was performed by searching relevant keywords in authentic databases and search engines such as SID, Google Scholar, Medlib and PubMed. Twenty-seven published articles in the field of WRMSDs from 2001 to 2010 were searched. Meta-analysis and random effects approach were used to analyze data. Heterogeneity investigation of articles was done using I2 index.

RESULTS: The total sample size was 6,090 workers with a mean of 225 samples per study. The upper and lower back had the highest prevalence rate of self-reported WRMSDs with 38.1% (95% CI: 29.9-46.4), and 50% (95% CI: 42.5-57.5), respectively. Also, knee had the highest prevalence among lower extremity disorders with 42.1% prevalence rate (95% CI:35.1-49.1).

CONCLUSIONS: A high prevalence of WRMSDs in upper and lower limbs was reported in Iran. Trainings with regard to occupational ergonomics and industrial hygiene programs were recommended for minimizing the work-related risks of musculoskeletal disorders.