Low Back Pain and its Associated Factors among First-Year Health Science Undergraduate Students: A Cross Sectional Study

Objective: To determine the prevalence and risk factors of LBP among health science students in the state of Israel. Methods: Two hundred and twenty two students of the first-year health science programs (Nursing, Physical Therapy, Medical Laboratory Sciences and Emergency Medical Services) at Zefat Academic College were invited to participate during May 2021-2022 academic year. A cross-sectional survey with structured self-administered questionnaire that sought information about demographic as well as physical activity and sedentary behavior was used. Results: One hundred ninety seven (88.7%) students participated in this study with mean age of 23 ±3.5 years. The prevalences of LBP at lifetime and last month were 74% (146/197) and 61% (121/197), respectively. No significant differences were noted in the prevalence and characteristics of LBP among the different programs. The results revealed that history of disability (OR-3.591) and seeking care from clinicians due to pain (OR=4.729) increase the likelihood for LBP whereas, physical activity for at least 20 minutes attenuates the risk. Conclusions: Students from health science programs, manifested high prevalence of LBP. We believe that physical activity should be implemented in these programs in order to relief back pain.