13rd Year MBBS Students, College of Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
2Faculty, Dept. of Community Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
3Statistical Support Facility, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
*Address for Correspondence: Prof. Jayakumary Muttappallymyalil, Dept. of Community Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates, Email: communitymedpub@gmail.com
Online published on 6 April, 2015.
Back pain among high school students all over the world is on the rise. It is one of the most underestimated public health problems in today's generation.
This research was performed to determine the prevalence of back pain among high school students in Dubai, UAE.
The study was done using convenience sampling, the study sample comprising a total of 184 students, of both genders in the school grades 9 to 12. A consent form was signed by the parents and the subjects filled questionnaires. Descriptive statistics was performed to express the results.
The results obtained showed that more than half of the total population suffered from back pain. Furthermore, the results established a link between other variables such as the affected region and muscles of the back, age, grade (9–12) and gender. Considering the anatomical aspects of the back pain experienced, the region most affected as reported by the students, was the neck. Adolescents who belonged to 17 and above age group were observed to be more susceptible to back pain.
Back pain was more prevalent in females than in males. Prevalence of back pain is a major issue in today's generation and awareness among the students is essential for early prevention.
Back pain, students, prevalence
