Physical, nutritional, and health challenges among motorbike taxi drivers in Douala, Cameroon: a cross-sectional observational survey

Abstract

Motorbike taxi driving in Douala, Cameroon, is an intense occupation that exposes drivers to heavy physical workload, poor nutrition, and serious health problems, especially musculoskeletal disorders. This study assessed these challenges among motorbike taxi drivers to inform prevention and health promotion strategies. Motorbike taxis, locally called “bend-skin”, are now a major transport mode in Douala but operate in precarious conditions with little health surveillance. The study aimed to describe the physical demands, eating habits, and recurrent musculoskeletal problems among these drivers. A cross-sectional observational survey was conducted in urban and peri-urban areas of Douala. Using a structured questionnaire, data were collected from 360 drivers on socio-demographics, work schedule and postures, diet and substance use, healthcare access, and self-reported musculoskeletal pain, then analyzed with descriptive statistics. Most drivers were young adults (20-40 years), worked 3-6 days a week for 8-11 hours per day, often in difficult urban/suburban traffic and with additional physically demanding jobs, indicating high overall physical strain. Risky nutritional and health practices were frequent, including street-based meals, very low fruit intake, high alcohol and hallucinogen use, short sleep duration, reliance on self-medication, and preference for informal street healthcare. All drivers reported pain in at least one body region, with very high rates of pain in arms, legs, back, feet, and joints such as knees and ankles, reflecting a heavy burden of musculoskeletal disorders. Motorbike taxi drivers in Douala face combined physical overload, inadequate diet, and hazardous health behaviors that contribute to widespread and recurrent musculoskeletal disorders. Targeted interventions are needed, including ergonomic measures, nutrition and health education, better access to formal healthcare, and policies to limit occupational stressors and risky substance use.