Prevalence of Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Farm Women Engaged in Tobacco Farming: A Cross-sectional Study
Komal Patel *
P.G. Department of Home Science, Sardar Patel University, Vallabh Vidyanagar-388120, Gujarat, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a major global occupational health issue, especially causing low back and neck pain due to poor working conditions like repetitive tasks, awkward postures, and heavy lifting. Women agricultural workers in tobacco farming are particularly vulnerable due to unsafe work practices, lack of ergonomic tools, and additional hazards like pesticide exposure and green tobacco sickness.
Aims: To assess the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among women labourers engaged in tobacco farming and to identify associated ergonomic risk factors.
Study Design: A cross-sectional study design was adopted.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in the Middle Gujarat agro-climatic zone, specifically in Anand and Kheda districts, between May 2025 and January 2026.
Methodology: A multi-stage purposive-cum-random sampling technique was employed to select 1,515
women labourers from four blocks with substantial female participation in tobacco cultivation across Anand and Kheda districts of Gujarat. Socio-demographic data were collected using a structured questionnaire, while work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) were assessed using the Modified Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire.
Results: The findings revealed a high prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort, particularly in the lower back (over 85% in the past 12 months; 73% in the past 7 days), followed by ankles/feet, wrists/hands, upper back, and knees (75–80%). Age showed a statistically significant association (p ≤ 0.05) with musculoskeletal disorders across all body regions. BMI was not significantly associated with most regions, except hips/thighs and knees. Work experience and working hours were also significantly associated (p ≤ 0.05) with musculoskeletal discomfort in all studied body regions. Overall, the results indicate a significant variation in the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among women labourers with respect to selected characteristics.
Conclusion: The study highlights a significant burden of WMSDs among women labourers in tobacco farming, primarily due to poor ergonomic conditions and physically demanding tasks. There is an urgent need for targeted ergonomic interventions, improved agricultural tools, awareness programs, and structured work–rest cycles to reduce physical strain, enhance occupational health, and improve overall productivity.
Keywords: Tobacco farming, women farm labour, WMSDs, ergonomic risk factors