Work-related muscle and joint disorders were common in construction studies
A pooled prevalence estimate suggested a substantial burden, but large differences between studies limit how well the average describes any particular workforce.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders were frequently reported among adult construction workers, especially in the lower back and shoulders. The pooled estimate combines studies with substantial differences, so it should not be treated as a universal rate. Reported demographic associations do not establish causes, and inconsistent findings for daily work hours leave that relationship unresolved.
This abstract-based summary cannot assess how disorders were defined or the reporting periods used. The abstract reports extensive differences between studies and provides no confidence interval for the pooled prevalence.
What researchers found
Pooled prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders
Across adult construction-worker studies; descriptive prevalence, with no single comparator. Observation periods were not reported in the abstract.
Variation between studies
Regional estimates differed, with the highest reported prevalence in Asia among the regions listed. The overall figure describes the studies included in this review; it does not identify how frequently new cases developed over time.
Associations and prevention
The review reported higher odds among male and older workers, while daily work hours showed an inconsistent association. It did not test whether work rotation, ergonomic training or psychosocial support prevented these disorders, despite suggesting these approaches.
The original publication
A systematic review and meta-analysis on the prevalence and demographic risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in construction workers.
Santos W, Lorente A, Rojas C et al.
Front Public Health · 2025
- PubMed ID
- 41158564
- Record checked
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