The burden of colorectal cancer attributable to high body mass index in China: findings from 1990 to 2021 and prediction to 2035.

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality are rising in China, with high body mass index (BMI) established as a significant risk factor. However, comprehensive evidence regarding the BMI-attributable CRC burden in the Chinese population remains limited.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to analyze the trend of CRC burden attributable to high BMI (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) in China from 1990 to 2021 and to predict its development from 2022 to 2035, in order to provide a scientific foundation for the formulation of public health policies.

METHODS

We analyzed data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 (GBD 2021) to assess the BMI-attributable CRC burden in China from 1990 to 2021. Temporal trends were analyzed using Joinpoint regression models. Future projections through 2035 were generated using Bayesian age-period-cohort (BAPC) modeling. The Das Gupta method was used to explore the contribution of population growth, aging, and epidemiologic factors to these burden changes.

RESULTS

From 1990 to 2021, China's BMI-attributable CRC burden increased substantially, with ASMR and ASDR rising at annual rates of 2.393% (95% CI 2.306-2.481) and 2.305% (95% CI 2.188-2.422), respectively. The mortality and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) rate both increased with age. Males showed higher burden rates in most age groups. Projections indicate continued increases in ASMR (2.43% annually) and ASDR (2.44% annually) through 2035. Epidemiological factors were the primary drivers, contributing 99.73% to mortality changes and 44.81% to DALYs changes.

CONCLUSIONS

The BMI-attributable CRC burden in China shows a concerning upward trajectory that is predicted to continue, with epidemiologic factors playing a major role. Urgent public health interventions targeting obesity prevention, lifestyle modification, and expanded CRC screening are needed to mitigate this growing burden.