The burden of nasopharyngeal carcinoma in countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), 1990-2023: findings from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2023.

BACKGROUND

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) remains a major cancer burden in parts of Asia, particularly in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). However, the burden and trends within ASEAN have not been comprehensively explored.

METHODS

We extracted data on incidence, prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of NPC in ASEAN from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2023. We summarized absolute counts, crude rates, and age-standardized rates, and quantified temporal trends using estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs). Analyses were stratified by sex, age group, and Sociodemographic Index (SDI). Associations between SDI and age-standardized rates were examined using Spearman correlation and smoothing spline models.

RESULTS

In 2023, NPC in ASEAN accounted for 17,077 (95% UI: 12,742-22,109) incident cases, 65,845 (95% UI: 46,258-90,557) prevalent cases, 12,422 (95% UI: 9,657-15,413) deaths, and 435,087 (95% UI: 335,841-542,950) DALYs. Compared with 1990, the corresponding counts increased by 189%, 222%, 155%, and 141%, respectively. From 1990 to 2023, the age-standardized incidence and prevalence rate increased; whereas the age-standardized mortality rate declined slightly, and the age-standardized DALY rate remained stable. The burden was higher in males than in females and was concentrated in adults aged 45-59 years. Clear heterogeneity was observed across member states and SDI levels.

CONCLUSIONS

NPC remains a major public health challenge in ASEAN. The overall burden continues to rise, with clear disparities between countries and higher impact among males and middle-aged adults. ASEAN countries should work together to reduce the regional burden of NPC.