Global burden of uterine cancer in 204 countries and territories and its predicted level in 15 years, from 1990 to 2021.

Abstract

Background: Uterine cancer (UC) is a major cause of cancer-related deaths among women. This study assesses the global burden of UC from 1990 to 2021.

Methods: Data from the Global Burden of Disease 2021 study were used to analyze UC incidence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) across 204 countries. Age-standardized rates were evaluated by age and Socio-Demographic Index (SDI), with trends forecasted to 2036 using Bayesian models.

Results: In 2021, the global incidence of UC reached 473,614 cases (95% uncertainty interval [UI]=4,29916-5,13667), with an age-standardized incidence rate of 5.41 per 100,000 (95% UI=4.90-5.87), showing an upward trend since 1990, particularly in high-SDI regions. However, the mortality rate in high SDI regions exhibited a declining trend, with an estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) of -0.25 (95% confidence interval=-0.42 to -0.08). Although the number of deaths globally has increased, the age-standardized mortality rate has decreased compared to 1990 (EAPC: -0.85). The global age-standardized DALYs also show a downward trend, except in high SDI and low-middle SDI regions. The highest incidence was observed among individuals aged 70-74 in 2021. By 2036, new cases are projected to rise, though incidence, mortality, and DALYs are expected to decline.

Conclusion: Regional disparities in the global UC burden highlight the need for tailored strategies, especially in low-income countries, to reduce its impact.