AUTHOR COPY Work 73 (2022) 969–976 DOI:10.3233/WOR-210519 IOS Press 969 Perception of risk factors at work associated with musculoskeletal symptoms in dental students of Melaka, Malaysia: A cross-sectional study Vijendra P. Singh a,∗ , Sowmya Nettem a , Htoo H. Kyaw Soe b , Nurul Ashiqin Binti Babji c , Al-Insyirah Iman Binti Sahari d , Liyana Syatrah Binti Mohd Yusof e and Melwin Mathew a a Department of Periodontology and Oral Implantology, Faculty of Dentistry, Manipal University College Malaysia, Melaka, Malaysia b Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Manipal University College Malaysia, Melaka, Malaysia c Klinik Pergigian Sungai Buloh, Sungai Buloh, Malaysia d Klinik Pergigian Marang, Marang, Malaysia e Klinik Pergigian Chendering, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia Received 6 April 2021 Accepted 15 October 2021 Abstract. BACKGROUND: Dental professionals have been reported to be constantly exposed to work-related musculoskeletal disor- ders with symptoms often started as early as the student phase. Risk perception may play an important role in modifying risk at work. OBJECTIVE: To assess the influence of gender, academic level, and the presence of painful symptoms on the perception of risk factors at work contributing to musculoskeletal symptoms among dental students of Melaka, Malaysia. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey of 183 clinical year dental students based on a convenience sample. The data were collected using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and Job Factor Questionnaire for assessment of musculoskeletal symptoms and risk factors at work respectively. Study data were evaluated using percentage, median, Cochran’s Q test, Bonferroni correction, multiple linear regression analysis and Mann-Whitney U Test. The analysis was interpreted considering a 95 % confidence interval and significant level at P < 0.05. RESULTS: Dental students reported a high prevalence (86.9%) of musculoskeletal symptoms mostly affected the neck, shoulder, lower and upper back body regions. No significant difference in perception was found with the gender. A significant (P < 0.05) higher perception was observed in fourth-year students. The presence of painful symptoms was significantly (P < 0.05) associated with working in the same position, prolonged duration of work and use of tools. CONCLUSIONS: Priority in implementing ergonomic education throughout the training in the dental schools should be considered to improve perception and reduce musculoskeletal disorders associated with the dental profession. Keywords: Dental education, ergonomics, musculoskeletal discomfort, risk factors awareness ∗ Address for correspondence: Dr. Vijendra P. Singh, Profes- sor, Department of Periodontology and Implantology, Faculty of Dentistry, Manipal University College Malaysia (JVMC), Jalan Batu Hampar, Bukit Baru, Melaka 75150, Malaysia. E-mail: dr.vijendra@hotmail.com, E-mail: vijendrapal.singh@manipal. edu.my. ISSN 1051-9815/$35.00 © 2022 – IOS Press. All rights reserved.