O-076 Predictors for Returning to Work After Sick Leave Due to Musculoskeletal Conditions: A Comparative Study Among Different Disorders and Injuries

Abstract Introduction Musculoskeletal disorders and injuries (MSDI) are the leading causes of work disability in Brazil. Objective To analyze predictors for return to work (RTW) after sick leave due to musculoskeletal disorder or injury. Methods A longitudinal study conducted in São Paulo between 2021-2022, among 216 workers on sick leave requesting a social security benefit due to MSDI. Participants answered questions about sociodemographic, occupational features, and clinical information. Logistic regression was performed to study predictors for RTW within one year of sick leave. Results Among 122 participants on sick leave due to disorders, mean age was 43 years (SD 9.48); RTW was 63.9%, mean RTW was 158 days (SD 88.4). Multiple analysis showed predictors for RTW were: age 40 years (OR4.15; 95%CI 1.66-0.37) and regular physical activity (OR4.14; 95%CI 1.25-13.71), adjusted for sex. Among 94 participants on sick leave due to injury, mean age was 34.7 years (SD 10.3). RTW was 78.7% and mean time to return was 129 days (SD 77.2). Predictors for RTW were age 40 years (OR 6.00; 95%CI 1.37-26.2) and low RTW self-efficacy (OR 4.76; 95%CI 1.16-19.49), adjusted for sex and education. Discussion and conclusion People injured returned more often and earlier than those with musculoskeletal disorders. Older workers reporting lower self-efficacy were more likely to return among the disorder’ group; and non-sedentary older workers were more likely to RTW among those in injury group. This profile can help OSH professionals to better plan RTW process aiming on workers under risk for longer absenteeism. Acknowledgments: CNPq 423231/2018–9, 304375/2017–9, 306963/2021–3.