Work has been associated with adult musculoskeletal pain but has not received much attention among adolescents even though more teens are working. The prevalence of musculoskeletal pain in adolescents is reported to be high (>30%). The objectives of this study were to determine the incidence of musculoskeletal pain in a cohort of adolescents and to investigate whether work is a risk factor for its development. A cohort of 502 seventh to ninth graders in Montreal, Canada were followed three times, six months apart over a 12 month period. Students responded to a questionnaire addressing musculoskeletal health and lifestyle factors (including work). Musculoskeletal pain occurring at a frequency of at least once a week in the past six months was defined as the outcome. Work was measured by frequency level and was also classified by type of job. Multivariate methods were used to model the repeated measures outcome as a function of work and other covariates. The cumulative annual incidence of musculoskeletal pain was 38%. Adolescents who worked developed pain more than those who did not work (adjusted odds ratio: 1.23; 95% confidence interval: 1.04-1.43). Those who worked in white-collar jobs were at a higher risk of developing pain (adjusted OR: 2.92, 95% CI: 0.97-8.83) than those in blue-collar jobs (adjusted OR: 1.78, 95% CI: 1.00-3.18) or childcare (adjusted OR: 1.51, 95% CI: 0.78-2.91). We conclude that work is a risk factor for musculoskeletal pain development in adolescents. Prevention strategies against injuries in the workplace should include adolescents who work.
Learning Objectives: The participant in this session will be able to: 1)appreciate that many adolescents are working part time 2)appreciate that musculoskeletal pain is a substantial problem plaguing adolescents 3) Understand that work is a risk factor for musculoskeletal pain in adolescents 4) Assess the importance of addressing the issue of work and pain in adolescents, in terms of developing prevention strategies
Keywords: Adolescent Health, Youth at Work
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.