Liver Cancer Burden from High BMI in Western Pacific’s Aging Population, 1990-2021

Background With the aging population in the Western Pacific region, the rising burden of liver cancer associated with high body mass index (BMI) has become a focus of public health concern. This study aims to assess trends in liver cancer burden linked to high BMI among the elderly (60+) from 1990 to 2021 and explore its relationships with aging, socioeconomic development, and human resources for health (HRH). Methods Data on deaths and disability-adjusted life years were sourced from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2021, while HRH data came from GBD 2019. The estimated annual percentage change was calculated to assess trends, and decomposition analysis examined the contributing factors. Spearman’s rank correlation was used to evaluate relationships between disease burden and the Socio-demographic Index (SDI) and HRH. Results From 1990 to 2021, the liver cancer burden linked to high BMI significantly increased among the elderly in the Western Pacific. China had the highest overall burden due to its large population, while Australia saw the greatest growth. Decomposition analysis revealed that population growth and epidemiological changes were the key drivers. However, the relationship between disease burden and SDI, as well as HRH density, was weak. Conclusion The burden of liver cancer caused by high BMI in the Western Pacific region remains a serious public health issue. Promoting the early diagnosis and comprehensive intervention of obesity and its related diseases, optimizing the allocation of health resources, and strengthening the management of chronic diseases are key strategies for reducing the burden of liver cancer.