Musculoskeletal Disorders among Agricultural Workers in Rural Communities of Loja, Ecuador

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) are the most common occupational disease worldwide, frequently affecting agricultural workers due to the physical demands of their labor activities. In this context, a descriptive, relational, cross-sectional study was conducted in rural communities of Loja, Ecuador, with the aim of determining the prevalence of MSDs and their relationship with sociodemo-graphic and occupational factors among agricultural workers. The sample consisted of 103 farmers who completed the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire (NMQ). The results showed a high prevalence of MSDs in this population, with symptoms reported over the past 12 months, particularly in the neck, lower back, and knees. Furthermore, a statis-tically significant association was observed between the presence of MSDs and BMI. In conclusion, MSDs represent a frequent health problem among farmers, highlighting the need to implement preventive strategies and occupational health promotion programs in rural communities.