The global, regional, and national burden of oral cancer, 1990-2021: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021.

PURPOSE: This epidemiological study leverages data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database spanning from 1990 to 2021 to analyze the global burden of oral cancer. The research aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of the age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR), age-standardized mortality rate (ASDR), and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) for oral cancer, examining trends over three decades. METHODS: The study used age standardized rate (ASRs) as an indicator of oral cancer epidemiological data. Trend analysis uses estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) to track changes in oral cancer indicators. RESULTS: The study identifies a global increase in oral cancer incidence, mortality, and DALYs. From 1990 to 2021, the global incidence rate increased significantly from 3.26 (95% UI 3.14-3.41) to 5.34 (95% UI 4.94-5.70), the global mortality rate rose from 1.83 (95% UI 1.73-1.92) to 2.64 (95% UI 2.42-2.84), and the global estimate of DALYs increased from 55.05 (95% UI 52.38-57.97) to 74.44 (95% UI 67.50-80.44). High-risk regions include Palau and certain areas in Asia. Middle SDI regions show the most significant growth, while economically underdeveloped areas like parts of Africa show less significant trends. CONCLUSION: The research underscores the need for heightened awareness, surveillance, and prevention efforts, especially in regions with high oral cancer incidence. Policymakers are urged to implement screening programs and public health education to combat the disease.