Incidence and Risk Factors of the Upper-Limb Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Occupational Groups in Key Industries — China, 2018–2021

Abstract

What is already known about this topic? The burden of illness and economic losses due to upper-limb work-related musculoskeletal disorders (UL-WMSDs) is high; thus, they have become a major global public health problem. At present, the epidemiological characteristics of UL-WMSDs in China's occupational population are still unknown. What is added by this report? The incidence of UL-WMSDs among key occupational groups in China is 22.5%, with distinct occupational characteristics. What are the implications for public health practice? This study has primarily determined the occurrence and potential risk factors of UL-WMSDs in key industries in China and provided data support for recommending prevention and control of the occurrence of such diseases in key industries in China, and in facilitating the addition into the China’s List of Legal Occupational Diseases.