OBJECTIVE:
To analyze the prevalence and factors associated with musculoskeletal symptoms in taxi drivers in Rio Branco, Acre.
METHODS:
Cross-sectional population-based study with 321 drivers. It was used a questionnaire with closed questions on musculoskeletal symptoms and associated variables. Multiple logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with symptoms in the last 12 months.
RESULTS:
The prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms was 72.0%. The body parts with the highest prevalence were: lumbar (49.5%) and neck (29.9%). Poor self-assessed health associated itself with symptoms all body regions. The situation of living with more than 4 people at home was associated with symptoms in the regions of the upper trunk and the upper and lower limbs. Living with a partner was associated with symptoms in the regions of the upper and lower torso. Linear trend of increasing BMI with the symptoms on the upper trunk and lower limbs was found. The condition of having less than 5 years of formal studying and having 2 or more children showed association with symptoms in the lower trunk and upper limbs, respectively. The alarming prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in taxi drivers suggests the need for occupational health programs for these workers.
cumulative trauma disorders; occupational diseases; cross-sectional studies; prevalence
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