Abstract:
The scope of nervous system disorders spans neurodevelopmental issues to neurodegenerative diseases, including post-COVID-19 cognitive impairment. Previous assessments lacked comprehensive coverage, notably excluding neurodevelopmental conditions. This study estimates the global burden of 37 nervous system conditions from 1990 to 2021, encompassing mortality, prevalence, years lived with disability (YLDs), years of life lost (YLLs), and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs). Results reveal nervous system disorders as the foremost cause of DALYs globally in 2021, with increasing burden over time. Effective prevention and treatment strategies are imperative.
Introduction:
Disorders affecting the nervous system, from congenital anomalies to neurodegenerative diseases, pose significant health challenges worldwide, impacting cognitive, sensory, and motor functions. This study aims to comprehensively assess the burden of these conditions globally, emphasizing the need for effective interventions.
Background:
Nervous system disorders encompass a wide range of conditions, including congenital anomalies, neurodegeneration, and post-infectious complications like those seen in COVID-19. However, previous assessments lacked coverage of neurodevelopmental disorders and certain congenital, neonatal, and infectious conditions. This study fills this gap by estimating the global burden of 37 nervous system conditions from 1990 to 2021.
Methods:
Mortality, prevalence, YLDs, YLLs, and DALYs were estimated for 204 countries and territories, incorporating neurological conditions directly causing damage to the central nervous system (CNS) or peripheral nervous system. Conditions with nervous system morbidity as a consequence, rather than a primary feature, were also considered. A sequela-level analysis isolated nervous system health loss, facilitating a clearer understanding of the burden attributable to these conditions.
Findings:
Nervous system disorders collectively ranked as the leading cause of DALYs globally in 2021, affecting over 40% of the global population. While global DALY counts increased between 1990 and 2021, age-standardized rates of deaths and DALYs attributed to these conditions decreased. Stroke, neonatal encephalopathy, migraine, Alzheimer’s disease, and other dementias were among the top contributors to DALYs.
Interpretation:
Given the increasing global burden of nervous system disorders, effective prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation strategies are imperative. This underscores the need to prioritize nervous system health within public health agendas.
Conclusion:
This study highlights the substantial burden imposed by nervous system disorders globally and emphasizes the urgency of addressing them through concerted public health efforts.
Funding:
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
