The goal of this research is to a) quantify the contribution of non-work risk factors to WRMSD reports and b) examine gender and age differences in this contribution. In a previously published case-control study, nested in a population-based, random-digit-dialed telephone survey of 3798 Connecticut working adults, symptoms of WRMSD (Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorders) were associated with a web of work-related biomechanical, psychosocial, and organizational factors. In several models, biomechanical exposures showing strong associations with case status were Static Postures, Repeated Pushing, Pulling, Lifting, and Repeated Neck Bending (ORs 1.07-12.8). Psychosocial and organizational factors consistently retained in these models were: Demands (ORs 1.26-1.59) and perceptions of organizational support (ORs 0.53-0.79). All Odds Ratios were significant at p < .05. The present research extends this analysis to non-work risk factors. Five postulated non-work risk factors (sports, hobbies, home maintenance, housework and computer/TV games) did not enter significantly in any models explaining male case status. In female models, only computer/TV game use showed a marginally significant negative relationship with case status (OR 0.68; 95%CI 0.45-1.03). Subsequent entry of work risk factors removed this item from the models. Five items asking if the respondent was responsible for cooking, house cleaning, bill paying, auto repair and yard work also did not enter in male or female models. Age stratification did not alter these results. These analyses suggest that, in a randomly identified group of adult workers reporting work-related MSDs, commonly suggested non-work risk factors may not contribute significantly to disease etiology.
Learning Objectives: Learning objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to: List 5 commonly proposed non-work risk factors for work-related MSDs and describe their possible contribution to MSD etiology. Describe the methodology by which these risk factors were determined not to contribute significantly to work-related MSD etiology. List 3 strengths and 3 possible weaknesses in this research
Keywords: Ergonomics, Gender
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.