Prevalence and Patterns of Multi-Site Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Occupational Populations in Key Industries — China, 2018–2023

What is already known about this topic? Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) represent a major global occupational health burden. Previous research has primarily focused on single-site WMSDs, with limited attention to multi-site WMSDs, which impose a substantially greater burden on health and the economy. What is added by this report? Multi-site WMSDs were more prevalent (26.4%) than single-site disorders (11.3%), accounting for 69.9% of all cases. The highest multi-site prevalence was seen in packaging and printing, healthcare, and nonferrous metal smelting. Female sex, higher education, prolonged standing, prolonged sitting, fixed postures, and insufficient rest were key risk factors, with risks rising with disorder severity. What are the implications for public health practice? Multi-site WMSDs impose a heavy burden on workers in China. Prevention and control strategies should prioritize high-risk industries and implement interventions targeting modifiable risk factors. WMSDs should be incorporated into the occupational disease surveillance system and promoted for inclusion in the statutory list of occupational diseases in China.