Prevalence of low back pain and associated factors

Abstract

Objective: this study aimed to analyze, through a literature review, the prevalence of low back pain and the most common associated factors in the population aged 10 to 19 years. Method: a literature review was conducted using the following databases: PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCO, and Scopus databases. Articles published between January 2020 and May 2025 were included, using the descriptors “low back pain,” “adolescents,” and “prevalence.” Results:
from the screening of 884 initial records, 40 articles were selected for the final analysis. The results indicated heterogeneous prevalence rates: 25% of the studies reported high rates (above 50%), and 40% reported rates below 25%. Among the most recurrent associated factors were female sex (reported in 26 studies), excessive screen use (13 studies), physical inactivity (11 studies), and mental health issues. Conclusion: low back pain shows a high prevalence among adolescents and is a multifactorial condition strongly influenced by sedentary behaviors, gender, and psychosocial factors. These findings suggest
the need for preventive strategies, such as lifestyle changes—especially among females—the adoption of ergonomically appropriate environments, and
psychological support for pain-related conditions.