Global mortality rates are showing a downward trend globally, but a concerning rise in deaths among youths and young adults is becoming apparent, as per the latest Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study published in The Lancet and presented at the World Health Summit in Berlin.
Moreover, noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are now responsible for almost two-thirds of all mortality and morbidity worldwide, with conditions such as ischemic heart disease, stroke, and diabetes taking the lead. Researchers suggest that nearly half of all deaths and disability could be prevented by addressing key risk factors like high blood sugar levels and high body mass index (BMI).
Dr. Christopher Murray, the Director of the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington School of Medicine, emphasized the urgent need for a strategic response to the evolving global health challenges posed by the aging population and changing risk factors. The GBD study, conducted by Dr. Murray’s team and the GBD Collaborator Network comprising 16,500 scientists and researchers, analyzed data from 375 diseases and injuries, along with 88 risk factors, across 204 countries and territories.
The study revealed that the global age-standardized mortality rate has seen a significant decline of 67% since 1950, with life expectancy reaching 76.3 years for females and 71.5 years for males. However, regional disparities persist, with life expectancy varying from 83 years in high-income regions to 62 years in sub-Saharan Africa.
Notably, deaths among adolescents and young adults, particularly in the 20 to 39 age group, have increased in regions like high-income North America due to factors like suicide, drug overdose, and excessive alcohol consumption. Infant mortality rates have witnessed a significant decrease, especially in regions like East Asia, attributed to improved nutrition, vaccination programs, and stronger healthcare systems.
The shift from infectious to noncommunicable diseases has been a key finding of the study, with conditions like ischemic heart disease and stroke regaining prominence as leading causes of death. While some infectious diseases have seen a decline, the prevalence of diabetes, chronic kidney disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and HIV/AIDS has increased over the years.
The burden of diseases, injuries, and risk factors underscores the importance of addressing modifiable risk factors to reduce mortality and disability. High systolic blood pressure, smoking, high blood sugar levels, and obesity were identified as key risk factors contributing to health loss globally.
Furthermore, environmental factors like air pollution and lead exposure were highlighted as significant contributors to cardiovascular diseases and other health issues. Climate-sensitive risks, including air pollution and high temperatures, were noted to have a substantial impact on global health outcomes.
In conclusion, the GBD 2023 study emphasizes the need for policymakers to prioritize public health interventions targeting adolescents and young adults, especially in regions with higher mortality rates. Efforts to reduce health inequities and address preventable risk factors can play a crucial role in improving global health outcomes. The findings of the study are available through interactive data visualization tools like GBD Compare and GBD Results, providing valuable insights for informed decision-making in healthcare policy and practice.
