Background: Musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS) are among the most common occupational health problems worldwide and disproportionately affect agricultural workers because of the physical demands of their work. However, evidence on MSS prevalence among farmers in Ecuador remains limited. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of MSS and examine its association with selected sociodemographic and occupational factors among agricultural workers in rural communities in Loja, Ecuador. Methods: A descriptive, analytical, cross-sectional study was conducted among 103 farmers using the Standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ). Descriptive statistics were used to estimate the 12-month prevalence of MSS, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess associations with sociodemographic and occupational variables. Results: A high prevalence of MSS was observed, particularly in the lower back (78.6%), knees (64.1%), and neck (58.3%). Overweight was significantly associated with lower back pain and marginally associated with neck pain. No significant associations were found between MSS prevalence and occupational exposure variables, such as working posture or weekly working hours. Conclusions: MSS are highly prevalent among agricultural workers in rural Ecuador. These findings highlight the need for preventive occupational health strategies to reduce musculoskeletal risk in agricultural settings.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) are the most common occupational disease worldwide, frequently affecting agricultural workers due to the physical demands of their labor activities. In this context, a descriptive, relational, cross-sectional study was conducted in rural communities of Loja, Ecuador, with the aim of determining the prevalence of MSDs and their relationship with sociodemo-graphic and occupational factors among agricultural workers. The sample consisted of 103 farmers who completed the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire (NMQ). The results showed a high prevalence of MSDs in this population, with symptoms reported over the past 12 months, particularly in the neck, lower back, and knees. Furthermore, a statis-tically significant association was observed between the presence of MSDs and BMI. In conclusion, MSDs represent a frequent health problem among farmers, highlighting the need to implement preventive strategies and occupational health promotion programs in rural communities.