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Global trends in low back pain and neck pain in the working population: implications for occupational health

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study systematically evaluated the global burden of low back pain (LBP) and neck pain (NP) among individuals aged 20-65 from 1990 to 2021, utilizing data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database. We analyzed incidence, prevalence, years lived with disability (YLDs), and age-standardized rates across 204 countries and regions, stratified by socio-demographic index (SDI). Key findings indicate a slight decline in LBP metrics but a mild increase in NP trends, with higher growth rates observed in females. Socioeconomic status significantly influenced these patterns, with developed countries showing lower YLDs increasing rate. The study highlights the need for gender-specific and region-tailored public health strategies, particularly focusing on women in lower SDI countries. These findings underscore the importance of targeted interventions to mitigate the growing burden of LBP and NP in an aging workforce increasingly engaged in office work.

Source: Frontiers in Public Health

DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1605072

Authors: Yonghui Zhao, Jiqing Wang, Boya Zhao, Yingang Zhang

Institutions: First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an Jiaotong University, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University

Language: English

Topic: Musculoskeletal pain and rehabilitation

Subfield: Pharmacology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Decent work and economic growth, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801