Global Burden of Cardiovascular Diseases in Young Adults Aged 20-24 Years, from 1990-2021: An Analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021.

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain a leading global health threat, with young adults (aged 20-24 years) increasingly affected, despite a historical research focus on older populations. This study investigates global, regional, and national CVD burden trends in this age group from 1990 to 2021 using the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021.

METHODS

Age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR), incidence rate (ASIR), death rate (ASDR), and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) were analyzed for CVDs in those aged 20-24 years. Trends were stratified by sex, region, and sociodemographic index (SDI) levels.

RESULTS

Globally, ASIR and ASPR have risen steadily since 1990, accelerating post-2000, whereas the ASDR and DALYs declined after 2006. Female patients exhibited a higher incidence and prevalence, whereas male patients bore greater mortality and DALY burdens. Low and low-middle SDI regions (eg, Oceania, Sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa and the Middle East) faced the highest burdens. Eritrea led in ASIR and ASPR; Nauru had the highest ASDR and DALYs. Ischemic heart disease dominated mortality and DALYs; rheumatic heart disease had the highest prevalence (greater in female patients); and stroke impacted male patients disproportionately.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite reduced mortality and DALYs, rising CVD incidence and prevalence in young adults-particularly in low-SDI settings-signals a growing public health crisis. Targeted preventive measures, early screening, and health promotion are critical to address this emerging challenge.