Trend of Global Neck Pain Disease Burden from 1990 to 2021

Objective: This study aims to provide an accurate quantitative analysis of the global burden of neck pain, offering a scientific basis for the formulation of effective prevention and control strategies. Methods: Data related to the global burden of neck pain from 1990 to 2021 were collected from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD 2021) database. Descriptive analyses were conducted using indicators such as incidence, incidence rate, prevalence, prevalence rate, years lived with disability (YLDs), and YLDs rate. Results: From 1990 to 2021, the total number of cases of neck pain worldwide increased from 24.9 million to 43.26 million, an overall increase of 73.82%; the total number of prevalent cases rose from approximately 114 million to about 206 million, representing an overall increase of 79.78%. However, the age-standardized incidence rate and prevalence rate showed relatively small increases of 1.18% and 0.26%, respectively. The total YLDs increased from about 114 million in 1990 to approximately 204 million in 2021, marking an overall increase of 78.42%. The YLD rate per 100,000 population rose from 214.53 in 1990 to 258.71 in 2021, an increase of about 20.59%. The age-standardized YLD rate only saw a slight increase of 0.14%. The incidence rate, prevalence rate, and YLDs rate of neck pain were all higher in females than in males, with a more significant increase observed in females. In 2021, the incidence rate for females approached 620 per 100,000, the prevalence rate was close to 3,200 per 100,000, and the YLDs rate was nearly 290 per 100,000; whereas for males, the incidence rate was about 480 per 100,000, the prevalence rate was around 2,600 per 100,000, and the YLDs rate was nearly 230 per 100,000. Conclusion: This study reveals a significant increase in the global burden of neck pain from 1990 to 2021, particularly in the total number of cases. Although the age-standardized incidence and prevalence rates increased relatively modestly, the notable rise in total numbers indicates that neck pain continues to have an escalating impact on global health. The higher incidence, prevalence, and YLDs rates in females compared to males suggest a need for more targeted health interventions and management strategies addressing gender differences. Future research should further explore the specific risk factors for neck pain and their relative contributions, providing a scientific basis for developing effective prevention and control strategies.