Factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders among the male rice farmers: a cross sectional study in five selected districts of Dhaka division, Bangladesh.

BACKGROUND

Rice farming involves repetitive tasks, heavy loads, and prolonged static postures that increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Evidence on MSDs among Bangladeshi rice farmers is limited.

METHODS

We conducted an analytical cross-sectional study among 340 male rice farmers aged 18–65 years from five purposively selected districts in the Dhaka division. Trained interviewers administered a structured questionnaire and the Bengali-translated Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. We summarised prevalence and used multivariable logistic regression to estimate associations.

RESULTS

Overall, 44% reported musculoskeletal pain in the previous month. The most affected regions were waist or thigh (26%), knees (17%), neck (16.8%), ankle or leg pain (13.5%), wrist pain (12%), shoulder pain (8%), and elbow pain (7%). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed higher odds of MSDs among farmers aged 61 years or older, those working more than 8 h per day, and those sleeping fewer than 6 h per night. Secondary education or higher was associated with lower odds of MSDs.

CONCLUSION

MSDs are common among Bangladeshi rice farmers. Practical, community-led actions are needed, including ergonomic education delivered through agricultural extension, promotion of task rotation and work-rest scheduling, and low-cost tools to reduce awkward postures and heavy lifting These findings can guide local programmes to lessen the MSD burden and protect farmer well-being.