The double burden: the role of food insecurity on repetitive strain injuries among adults in Canada

Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) are a major public health concern in Canada and a leading reason for hospital visits among workers, placing pressure on the healthcare system and reducing productivity and well-being. Food insecurity, a key indicator of socioeconomic disadvantage and a critical determinant of health, may influence the RSI risk but remains understudied. Using data from the 2017-2018 Canadian Community Health Survey (n = 94,548), this study applied multivariable logistic regression to examine the relationship between food security status and RSIs among Canadian adults. About 12% reported experiencing RSIs. Individuals with moderate (odds ratio OR 1.36, p OR 1.35, p < 0.001) had higher odds of RSI compared to food-secure individuals. Several demographic, socioeconomic, behavioural and health-related factors were also associated with RSI. These findings highlight food insecurity as an important factor in RSI risk and the need to address it within broader prevention strategies.