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Article Type

Original Study

Abstract

Objective The aim of the study was to assess prevalence and degree of disability due to low back pain (LBP) among attendants to a Family Health Center. Background LBP is a serious medical and social problem and one of the most common causes of disability. Nearly everyone at some point suffers from LBP that interferes with work and recreational activity. Risk factors for LBP are multifactorial, including physical, improper social habits, and psychological factors. Patients and methods This was a case–control study nested in cross-sectional study. The study was conducted in Nusa-Gheit Family Health Center (El-Dakahlia governorate, Egypt) and included 154 attendances aged 18–60 years during the period of the study. Every participant was assessed for LBP through history taking and examination. In addition, the participants were assessed for degree of disability due to LBP using the Roland–Morris Disability Questionnaire. Results Prevalence of LBP was 53.2%. It was more among female patients (62.8%) than among male patients (38.3%). There was a statistically significant relationship between LBP and being female (P = 0.003, odds ratio = 2.71), smokers (P = 0.01, odds ratio = 6.5), and with increasing BMI. Furthermore, there was a statistically significant relationship between degree of disability and both different age groups (P = 0.002, odds ratio = 0.19) and marital status (P = 0.009, odds ratio = 0.06). As regards age, it was more common among patients aged greater than or equal to 40 years (86.2%). Regarding the severity of disability, severe disability was noted among male patients (78.3%) and married patients (80.5%). LBP affected the regularity of attending work. Conclusion LBP is highly prevalent among women, divorcees/windows, elderly, smokers, and obese individuals. Recommendation Primary healthcare physicians should use the evidence-based strategy in diagnosing and management of LBP. Integration of topic-related to diagnosis, management referral indication in Egyptian national guideline for family physician. Moreover, LBP prevention programs among patients should focus on improved working environment and decreased risk factors of LBP.

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