Ethical gamified health communication intervention to prevent Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs) in Myanmar migrants at Thailand's seafood factory: A study protocol

Abstract

Background Thailand's seafood industry heavily depends on Myanmar migrant workers, who face significant occupational health issues, including an increase in work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs). Due to linguistic and cultural limitations, traditional health communication strategies often fail to reach this population. This study explores the effectiveness of a culturally and linguistically tailored gamified health communication intervention aimed at preventing WMSDs in Myanmar migrant workers in a Thai seafood factory. Methods The intervention is developed and then implemented in two phases. The objective of the study is to develop, implement, and evaluate a gamified health intervention for Myanmar migrant workers that will prevent WMSDs. The intervention is customized to the workers' cultural background and work natures through focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and expert reviews. The intervention then consists of a set of 12 exercises designed to prevent the WMSDs. The Intervention’s impact is assessed through pre- and post-intervention evaluations measuring changes in knowledge, awareness, and self-reported musculoskeletal health. Results Since this is a study protocol, precise findings are not yet available. The target audience is expected to adopt safe work practices more frequently, have better physical health, and have a greater understanding of WMSDs. Conclusions This protocol describes a novel way to use a culturally-tailored and ethically appropriate gamified health communication intervention to address the health issues (such as WMSDs) experienced by Myanmar migrant workers in Thailand's seafood industry. This technique may serve as a model for comparable health promotion initiatives in other labour-intensive industries and migrant worker groups, promoting better awareness and prevention of WMSDs. Registration Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR) (TCTR20240515003, Registration Date: 15 May 2024).