PREVALENCE OF BACK PAIN AND ITS ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG GOVERNMENT DENTAL PERSONNEL IN KELANTAN
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Date
2011
Authors
RAZAN, AB.SAMAT
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Pusat Pengajian Sains Perubatan Universiti Sains Malaysia
Abstract
INTRODUCTION
Dentistry is a high risk profession for the development of back pain as it requires high
visual demands which result in the adoption of affixed and uncomfortable postures. This
study was conducted to determine the prevalence and associated factors of back pain
among government dental personnel in Kelantan.
METHODS
A cross sectional study was conducted among 350 dental personnel including dentist,
dental nurse, technician and dental surgery assistant in all government dental clinics in
Kelantan. Non probability sampling method was applied as all subjects were included in
this study. A validated Branson Posture Assessment Instrument (BPAI) and direct
observation of the subjects while performing their routine task were used. Proforma on
sociodemographic and occupational characteristic was used. Descriptive statistics
including mean and standard deviation for numerical and percentage for categorical data
were calculated. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to determine factors
associated with back pain.
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RESULTS
From 350 respondents, majority were female (79.1%) and Malay (98.0%). Age of
respondents ranged from 22 to 56 year old. The prevalence of back pain was 44.9% (95%
CI: 39.65, 50.07). Dental technician gave the highest prevalence of back pain 52.4%
(95% CI: 40.05, 64.71). Logistic regression analysis showed that after controlling for
potential confounders, the significant risk factors associated with back pain were self
reported abnormal posture (OR: 7.33, 95% CI: 3.19, 16.82) and job category (OR: 0.38,
95% CI: 0.20, 0.75).
CONCLUSION
The prevalence of back pain among Kelantan dental personnel was considered high. The
significant risk factors associated with back pain were abnormal posture and job
category. Innovations of ergonomically friendly dental equipment is one of the method to
improve the work practice and health of the dental personnel.
Description
Keywords
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH