Worldwide Burden of Hearing Loss Across Childhood and Adolescence, 1990–2021, and Projection to 2050

ABSTRACT Objectives This article aims to analyze the trends in hearing loss (HL) prevalence and years lived with disability (YLDs) in children and adolescents from 1990 to 2021, and the corresponding health inequalities, decomposing causes, and future trends. Methods This cross‐sectional, population‐based study used data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 (GBD 2021) across 204 countries and territories. Individuals with HL aged 0–19 years were included in this study. Statistical analysis was performed using R. Results There were 46,776,140 cases of pediatric HL globally in 2021, a 37.5% increase since 1990. The global prevalence rate increased from 1500.79 to 1721.44 per 100,000 population. Among the 5 SDI (sociodemographic index) regions, the highest number of prevalence cases of HL was in the Middle SDI, the lowest was in the High SDI, and the largest increase was in the Low SDI. Regionally, East Asia had the largest increase in prevalence. Among 204 countries, India had the highest number of HL cases in 2021, Madagascar had the highest prevalence rate, while Finland had the lowest prevalence rate. Globally, significant absolute and relative SDI‐related inequalities were observed in the distribution of HL burden in 204 countries. By 2050, the prevalence of pediatric HL will be challenging, especially in the age group of 15–19 years, with male individuals being the most affected. Conclusion Pediatric HL is an increasing global health issue with socio‐geographic disparities. Thus, a comprehensive strategy to promote children's hearing health deserves ongoing prioritization in light of the consistently demonstrated demand.