Gender differences and site-specific incident risks of musculoskeletal disorders among 224 506 workers in the food and beverage service industry in Taiwan: A 15-year Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study

Abstract

Objectives Occupational characteristics in the food and beverage service industry (FBSI) have been found to be associated with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). This study aimed to examine gender and site‐specific incident risks of MSDs among FBSI workers in Taiwan using a national population‐based database. Methods We conducted a 15‐year population‐based cohort study among 224 506 FBSI workers in Taiwan using data from five large nationwide databases to estimate direct standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) for identifying specific MSDs related to overexertion and repetitiveness during work. Overall, MSDs risks were also investigated by gender, sub‐industrial categories, and certificate types. Results We found SIRs for overall MSDs for male and female workers of 1.706 (95% CI, 1.688‐1.724) and 2.198 (95% CI, 2.177‐2.219), respectively. Our findings indicate significantly increased WMSD risk for both men and women, including median/ulnar nerve disorders (ICD‐9 354.0‐354.2); spondylosis and allied disorders (ICD‐9 721); intervertebral disc disorders (ICD‐9 722); disorders of the back (ICD‐9 724); peripheral enthesopathies and allied syndromes (ICD‐9 726); synovium, tendon, and bursa disorders (ICD‐9 727); and soft tissues of the peripheral system disorders (ICD‐9 729). Food stall workers and workers with Chinese cuisine or baking licenses were at higher risk among sub‐industrial categories and certificate types. Conclusion This large‐scale study revealed that FBSI workers were at higher risk for several MSDs than the general population. This information could help prioritize MSD problems and identify a high‐risk population. Relevant policy and ergonomic improvements and interventions could be implemented for health promotion in this industry.

Incidence and Duration of Sick Leave Due to Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in the Accommodation and Food Services Activities Sector in Slovenia: A Nationwide 5-Year Observational Study

“…Our study revealed ( Figure 1 ) a gender difference in work-related MSDs in sector I. Similar to other studies [ 7 , 8 ], MSDs occur more frequently in female workers in almost all body regions. The observed gender difference was particularly pronounced in older workers.…”

“…Sector I “accommodation and food service activities” of the classification NACE Rev2 seems to require additional attention and specific countermeasures to reduce MSDs [ 7 , 10 , 11 ]. This industry contributes significantly to employment and the economy in the EU [ 14 ].…”

“…Another study conducted in the United States confirmed the high prevalence of low back and shoulder disorders, but reported that the annual prevalence was only 42% [ 6 ]. In restaurant businesses, women appear to be at slightly higher risk than men, and certain occupations within the industry may be associated with particularly high risk [ 7 ]. Among hotel workers, the overall prevalence of MSDs is generally similar for men and women, but certain departments and occupations may be associated with a gender-specific increased risk of MSDs [ 8 ].…”

Einfluss der beruflichen Tätigkeit auf Erkrankungen des Bewegungsapparates der oberen Extremität

“…Der Faktor Alter spielte in der vorliegenden Studie als Einflussparameter keine Rolle, da es keine signifikanten Unterschiede im Alter in den Berufszweigen gab. Dies zeigte sich in vorangegangenen internationalen Studien divergent [25][26][27].…”

“…So sind Erwerbstätige bestimmter Berufssektoren einem höheren Verletzungsrisiko am Arbeitsplatz ausgesetzt als andere [33]. Der Beruf spielt aber auch insofern eine Rolle, als dass die Tätigkeitsausübung bei ein und derselben gesundheitlichen Einschränkung berufsabhängig unterschiedlich stark beeinträchtigen und somit spezifische sekundäre gesundheitsbezogene Risiken nach sich ziehen kann [26]. So zeigen sich bei Personen mit einer RM-Läsion, die in einem Berufssektor mit wenig Belastung der oberen Extremität tätig sind, eine geringere Gesamtdauer der Arbeitsunfähigkeit im Vergleich zu Personen, deren berufliche Ausübung mit langen oder starken Belastungen der oberen Extremität verbunden ist.…”