Burden and Projections of Anemia Among Children and Women of Reproductive Age: A Systematic Analysis for the GBD Study 2021.

BACKGROUND

Anemia is a significant global public health issue with substantial health consequences, particularly affecting children and women of reproductive age. This study analyzes the global burden and epidemiological trends of anemia in these specific populations from 1990 to 2021 and projects its trajectory to 2040.

METHODS

Using data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study 2021, we assessed the age-standardized prevalence rates (ASPRs), years lived with disability (YLDs), and estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) of anemia. Nordpred models were used to project prevalence and YLDs for anemia from 2021 to 2040.

RESULTS

In 2021, 599 million children under 15 years old and 657 million women of reproductive age globally had anemia. The most common cases were mild and moderate anemia. Mild and moderate anemia accounted for most prevalent cases, while moderate anemia contributed the largest share of YLDs. Nutritional deficiencies remained the leading cause of anemia-related YLDs, followed by other non-communicable diseases. Population growth, especially in lower Socio-Demographic Index regions, significantly influenced the rise in YLDs. Projections suggested that the age-standardized prevalence rate of anemia would increase among women of reproductive age from 16,722.91 per 100,000 population in 2021 to 17,585.71 per 100,000 population in 2040, whereas that among children would slightly decrease from 8,682.60 to 8,558.84 per 100,000 population during the same period.

CONCLUSION

Anemia remains a major health burden, necessitating urgent and effective strategies to address its diverse challenges.