Condições de saúde de pescadores artesanais do Amazonas: avaliação dos distúrbios musculoesqueléticos e da qualidade de vida

Abstract

Fishing is an ancestral activity, performed since prehistoric times for the subsistence of the human species. Currently, fishing is defined as an occupation developed in order to extract, catch and capture fishing resources, practiced mainly by men, being the main source of income and protein for hundreds of families, such as those inhabiting the Brazilian Amazon region. Fishing is classified as a high-risk activity for workers' health, as it exposes individuals to solar radiation, cold and musculoskeletal disorders caused by inadequate postures, prolonged repetitive efforts and manual handling of heavy loads. The study aimed to identify the main musculoskeletal complaints, as well as evaluate the association of musculoskeletal disorders with health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of artisanal fishermen in the rural district of Janauacá, Amazonas. A cross-sectional study was carried out, with a census sample of adult fishermen from the rural riverside communities of Boas Novas and Tilheiro, on Janauacá lake, Amazonas. Occupational aspects of the participants were evaluated, as well as aspects related to their health condition and use of health services. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) were assessed using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and pain intensity using a visual analogue scale. HRQoL was assessed using the SF-12. Initially, a descriptive analysis was carried out. Linear regression analysis was then performed to evaluate the association between the occurence of MSD and HRQOL. All analyzes were performed using Stata SE, version 15.0. 115 fishermen were evaluated, and a high occurrence of MSD was observed in the last 12 months and in the previous week in different body segments. MSD were classified as limiting daily activities and self- reported pain ranged from moderate to severe for most segments. Treatment, in general, was carried out at home, with no care sought from health services, with self- medication being frequently used. Those who reported MSD also had worse HRQoL, mainly in the physical health component. In addition to the presence of MSD, a high prevalence of chronic diseases and an indication of obesity were also observed among the participants. The study findings highlight the need to reorganize health services to health promotion and prevent the occurrence of MSD, as well as for their treatment and rehabilitation, considering the specificities of rural riverside populations involved in fishing activities