Page 60 - FINAL COMPENDIUM 2020-2021 27.2.2022

SELF-REPORTED MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS AMONG DENTISTS WORKING IN
MINISTRY OF HEALTH, MALAYSIA
NMRR-16-2412-33629

Ainon Natrah A, Asma’ M, Ishak AR, Faizah AK

Introduction: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a primary occupational health
problem affecting dental personnel due to numerous risk factors. Objective: To
determine the prevalence of MSDs and their associated factors among dentists working
in the Ministry of Health (MOH), Malaysia. Materials and methods: A self-administered
questionnaire was distributed to 900 MOH dentists in the Federal Territory of Kuala
Lumpur & Putrajaya, Perak, and Terengganu. Results: 80% responded, with 91.5%
reported having MSDs, with the neck being the highest prevalence (68.5%) affected. Low-
back pain was reported as severe, leading to reduced daily activities (11.2%) and requiring
time off work (3.3%). The mean workday loss due to MSDs was 92.4 days (SD=24.5). A
significant association existed between MSDs among dentists with high exposure to
vibrating tools (OR= 1.305; 95% CI 1.038- 1.641) and awkward neck position for oral cavity
viewing (OR= 1.434; 95% CI 1.085- 1.895). Discussion: MSDs are an occupational hazard
for dentists, affecting their work performance and quality of life. Assessing the associated
risk factors contributing to the development of MSDs among dentists in Malaysia could
improve the ergonomics at dentists’ workplace and reduce the risk of MSDs.

Presentation at the 22 NIH Scientific Conference 2021 on 21 – 23 September 2021
nd
Dr Ainon Natrah Aminnudin
Dental District of Kuantan
Pahang
Ministry of Health Malaysia

Dr Asma’ Mohamed
Faculty of Dentistry
University of Malaya

Dato’ Prof Dr Ishak Abdul Razak
Faculty of Dentistry
MAHSA University

Dr Faizah Abdul Karim
Dental District of Gombak
Selangor
Ministry of Health Malaysia

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