The burden of amputations due to road injuries global, regionally, and nationally, 1990–2021: analysis of data from the 2021 Global Burden of Disease Study

This study analyzed amputations resulting from road injuries worldwide from 1990 to 2021 using data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021. The findings revealed a 39.1% decrease in age-standardized prevalence rates, but the global absolute number of amputations increased by 7.8%, reaching 25.9 million by 2021. While age-standardized incidence and YLD rates declined, notable disparities persisted across regions and socio-demographic indices, with the highest burden observed in Middle and High-middle SDI areas. The burden was disproportionately higher among men, especially those aged 45-79. Projections indicate a rise in the prevalence and YLD rates by 2040, highlighting the need for enhanced road safety, trauma care, and rehabilitation services to address this growing public health issue.