Global burden of hemolytic disease and neonatal jaundice from 1990 to 2021 with projections to 2050: a systematic analysis of the GBD 2021 data.

BACKGROUND

Neonatal hemolytic disease and jaundice represent a persistent global health challenge, accounting for substantial avoidable mortality and long-term neurodevelopmental impairment among infants worldwide, with inequitable impacts across resource regions. This study aimed to evaluate the global, regional, and national burden of hemolytic disease and neonatal jaundice from 1990 to 2021, and project future trends up to 2050.

METHODS

Data on prevalence, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), and risk factors were drawn from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 study. Socio-demographic disparities were assessed via the socio-demographic index (SDI). Temporal trends were examined, inequalities were quantified by the slope index of inequality and concentration index, and future burden was projected to 2050.

RESULTS

Globally, the ASPR of neonatal jaundice increased by 41.5% between 1990 and 2021, while ASDR decreased by 56.8%. DALYs declined overall, but absolute case numbers rose due to population growth and improved survival. The burden was consistently higher in males than females and disproportionately concentrated in low and middle SDI regions. Key risk factors included low birthweight, preterm birth, and air pollution. Projections suggest that prevalence will continue to rise through 2050, while mortality is expected to decline further.

CONCLUSIONS

A global trend of increasing ASPR but decreasing ASDR from neonatal jaundice-related conditions was found. However, low SDI regions still have a disproportionate burden, underscoring the urgent need for targeted perinatal interventions and mitigation of environmental risks.