Global burden of disease and its risk factors for adults aged 70 and older across 204 countries and territories: a comprehensive analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021.

BACKGROUND

The global older population has been rapidly increasing in recent decades, presenting substantial economic and social challenges.

AIMS

This study aims to examine the global disease burden and the associated risk factors among the population aged 70 and older across different regions.

METHODS

Data from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) database were used to analyze global deaths, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), and average annual percentage changes to assess disease burden and associated risk factors.

RESULTS

In 2021, the global population aged 70 and older reached 494.4 (95%UI 482.1-508.2) million. Death and DALY rates have declined by 9.2% (95%CI 5.3-12.7) and 11.0% (95%CI 7.7-14.0) from 1990 to 2021, respectively. However, the global death rate increased to 7,062 per 100,000 population, with DALY rates rising to 125,042 per 100,000. A strong correlation exists between socio-demographic index (SDI) and DALY rates. Regions with lower SDI levels, particularly low and low-middle SDI regions, showed higher DALY rates, reaching 189,563 and 165,080 per 100,000, respectively. The leading causes of death among the older included ischemic heart disease, stroke, COVID-19, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The primary risk factors contributing to DALYs were high systolic blood pressure, air pollution, and tobacco use.

CONCLUSIONS

The global disease burden among adults aged 70 and older has shown declines in death and DALY rates, yet remains a significant challenge exacerbated by population growth, especially in less developed regions. Implementing preventive strategies that target primary risk factors early and enhancing treatment of underlying conditions are crucial.