Burden and trends of facial fractures in China and the United States based on GBD 2021 analysis

Facial fractures significantly impair functions related to respiration, vision, and speech, while also posing long-term cosmetic and psychological challenges. Regional disparities in the burden of facial fractures reflect variations in risk factors, healthcare accessibility, and preventive measures. This study investigates recent causes, trends, and the burden of facial fractures in China and the United States. Utilizing the Global Burden of Disease 2021 dataset, the study analyzed epidemiological data on facial fractures in China and the United States, focusing on age-standardized incidence rates and years lived with disability from 2010 to 2021. Estimated annual percentage changes (EAPC) were calculated to assess trends, while age- and sex-specific analyses provided further insights into population-specific patterns. Additionally, the primary etiologies of facial fractures in both countries were examined. Between 2010 and 2021, the incidence of facial fractures increased in both China and the United States, with a more pronounced rise in China (EAPC: 1.56%) compared to the United States (EAPC: 0.38%). In 2021, the highest incidence in China was observed among males aged 30-34 years, while in the United States, it was among males aged 20-24 years. Males consistently exhibited higher rates than females in both countries. Falls and road injuries were the leading causes of facial fractures in China, whereas falls and mechanical forces were predominant in the United States. The rising incidence of facial fractures in China and the United States highlights the need for targeted preventive strategies tailored to each country's specific risk factors and demographic patterns. These findings underscore the importance of addressing facial fractures as a global public health priority, with implications for policy-making and resource allocation to reduce the burden of these injuries worldwide.