Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Cassava Processors in Benue State

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a leading cause of work-related disability in agricultural processing communities across sub-Saharan Africa. This descriptive study investigated the prevalence and associated risk factors of MSDs among cassava processors in rural communities of Benue State, located in Nigeria's North Central geopolitical zone. A total of 160 processors, predominantly women, participated in the study through systematic random sampling. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was used alongside direct physical observation to capture symptom prevalence and ergonomic risk behaviors. Results showed that 74.4 percent of respondents reported musculoskeletal symptoms in at least one body region within the past 12 months, with the lower back (68.1%), shoulders (54.7%), and knees (47.5%) being the most affected. Prolonged stooping, repetitive lifting, and the absence of ergonomic tools were identified as the primary contributing factors. Majority of the participants had no prior occupational health training and were unaware of safe postural techniques. The findings highlight a critical gap between agricultural productivity and occupational health protection in informal food processing sectors. Recommendations include the introduction of ergonomically designed cassava processing equipment, periodic health screenings, and integration of occupational health modules into community health extension programs. Stakeholders in the Benue State Ministry of Health and Agriculture are urged to adopt protective policies for informal sector workers. Keywords: musculoskeletal disorders, cassava processing, ergonomics, agricultural workers, Benue State.