Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Neck and upper extremity musculoskeletal complaints are the common symptoms in occupational diseases that can cause workers disability and absenteeism. Objectives: to evaluate the percentage of neck and upper extremity musculoskeletal symptoms and its relation with occupational and individual factors (socioeconomic, smoking habit, blood sugar level, and body mass index). Methods: a cross sectional study among 778female garment workers in North Jakarta in 2005. Samples were selected purposively with inclusion criteria (age 18—55 years old, minimal 1 year working period). Results: The percentage of neck and upper extremity musculoskeletal symptom was 75.7 % (in detail 59.9 % on hands, 32 % on neck, 11.8% on shoulders, 11.1 % on back, and 9.6 % on elbow). The symptoms were weariness 81.2 %, hyperesthesia 50.6 %, pain 16.1 %, parasthesia 12.4 %, and weakness 11 %. The factors significantly related to neck and upper extremity musculoskeletal symptoms were working period and work position. The musculoskeletal symptoms in persons who had 1—10 years working period was higher than 11—25 years working period (OR 1.78 95 %CI 1.15-2.76 p=0.01), and working in sitting position was higher than standing position (OR 1.44 95 %CI 1.02-2.05p=0.038). Intervention through workplace modification such as the table or the chair height can protect workers from neck and upper extremity musculoskeletal symptoms.   Keyword : neck and upper extremity musculoskeletal symptoms, female workers, garment