Global Burden of Major Chronic Liver Diseases in 2021

Abstract

Background

This study utilised the Global Burden of Disease data (2010–2021) to analyse the rates and trends in point prevalence, annual incidence and years lived with disability (YLDs) for major chronic liver diseases, such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, metabolic dysfunction-associated liver disease, cirrhosis and other chronic liver diseases.

Methods

Age-standardised rates per 100,000 population for prevalence, annual incidence and YLDs were compared across regions and countries, as well as the socio-demographic index (SDI). Trends were expressed as percentage changes (PC) and estimates were reported with uncertainty intervals (UI).

Results

Globally, in 2021, the age-standardised rates per 100,000 population for the prevalence of hepatitis B, hepatitis C, MASLD and cirrhosis and other chronic liver diseases were 3583.6 (95%UI 3293.6–3887.7), 1717.8 (1385.5–2075.3), 15018.1 (13756.5–16361.4) and 20302.6 (18845.2–21791.9) respectively. From 2010 to 2021, the PC in age-standardised prevalence rates were−20.4% for hepatitis B, −5.1% for hepatitis C, +11.2% for MASLD and + 2.6% for cirrhosis and other chronic liver diseases. Over the same period, the PC in age-standardized incidence rates were -24.7%, -6.8%, +3.2%, and +3.0%, respectively. Generally, negative associations, but with fluctuations, were found between age-standardised prevalence rates for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, cirrhosis and other chronic liver diseases and the SDI at a global level. However, MASLD prevalence peaked at moderate SDI levels.

Conclusions

The global burden of chronic liver diseases remains substantial. Hepatitis B and C have decreased in prevalence and incidence in the last decade, while MASLD, cirrhosis and other chronic liver diseases have increased, necessitating targeted public health strategies and resource allocation.