The Association of Demographic Characteristics, Musculoskeletal Disorders and Depression with Physical Inactivity among Bus Drivers: Using Path Analysis

Background: Bus drivers are vulnerable due to prolonged sitting. A sedentary lifestyle can cause many health problems for them. This study was performed with the aim of investigating sedentary behaviour and its relationship with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and depression among bus drivers.Methods: This is a descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study on 300 professional drivers selected via available sampling method. Data were collected through Demographic Questionnaire, International Physical Activity Questionnaire, Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25 software, and path analysis was conducted using AMOS version 18.Results: The findings showed that 86.7% of the participants had very little physical activity. Most reported musculoskeletal discomfort in lower back (77.3%), neck (77%), and back (60.7%). 70.3% of drivers did not show depression or had mild depression. Path analysis showed that age (P=0.477), education (P=0.416), and marital status (P=0.271) did not affect sedentary behaviours. A two-way relationship existed between pain and physical activity (P=0.001). In the group with depression, low mobility existed, but no significant relationship was found between depression and inactivity (P=0.948).Conclusion: The results indicated that inactivity among bus drivers was almost high and significantly related to the prevalence of MSDs. While inactivity was not significantly related to depression, the rate of depression was higher in the inactive group. It is recommended that implement intervention programs, such as educational initiatives, should be held to increase physical activity and alter the lifestyle of these individuals. Increasing physical activity may reduce the prevalence of MSDs in this occupational group.