Accepted for/Published in: JMIR Public Health and Surveillance
Date Submitted: Feb 27, 2024
Date Accepted: Aug 26, 2024
Distribution, Risk Factors, and Burden of Mortality and DALYs Attributable to Major Non-Communicable Diseases in Western Europe: Updated Analysis from 1990 to 2021
ABSTRACT
Background:
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and neoplasms are leading causes of mortality globally.
Objective:
This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the death burden and Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) attributable to CVDs and neoplasms in Western Europe, investigate associated risk factors, and identify regional disparities. The study also evaluates the effectiveness of the Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in promoting healthier lives in the region.
Methods:
The study collected data on cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer-related mortality and Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) from 24 Western European countries, using the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021. The analysis explored age, sex, and country-specific patterns, as well as risk factors contributing to these deaths. The study also examined time trends by calculating the annual percent change in mortality rates.
Results:
In 2021, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and cancer accounted for 27.8% and 27.1% of total deaths in Western Europe, with age-standardized death rates of 106.8 and 125.8 per 100,000, respectively. Top two CVDs in this region were Ischemic heart disease and Stroke with age-standardized death rates of 47.27 (95%UI: 50.42, 41.45) and 27.06 (95%UI: 29.17, 23.00) respectively. Similarly, top two neoplasms were Lung Cancer and Colorectal Cancer with age-standardized death rates of 26.4 (95%UI: 27.69, 24.47) and 15.1 (95%UI: 16.25, 13.53) respectively. Over 1990-2021, CVD mortality rates decreased by 61.9%, while cancer rates decreased by 28.27%. Finland had the highest CVD burden (39.5%), and Monaco had the highest cancer-related deaths (34.8%). Gender differences were observed, with males having a higher burden of CVDs and cancer. Older individuals were also more at risk. Smoking had a stronger impact on CVD mortality and DALYs in males, while higher human development index (HDI) was associated with increased cancer deaths and DALYs in females.
Conclusions:
The study findings emphasize the substantial burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and cancer, in Western Europe. This underscores the critical need for targeted interventions and effective implementation of the Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of NCDs to achieve the goal of ensuring healthy lives for all. Clinical Trial: Not applicable
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