The burden of COVID-19 in Latin American and Caribbean countries: an analysis based on the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021

Objectives

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had a profound impact on the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean. This study aims to summarise key findings from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 in the region. We also explore disparities in burden rates and the relationship with the Socio-demographic Index (SDI).

Study design

A cross-sectional analysis of GBD 2021 results was conducted.

Methods

We obtained the disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) due to COVID-19 for 20 countries, analysing number- and age-adjusted rates. Spearman's correlation ($rho$) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) assessed the SDI–DALY rates relationship.

Results

COVID-19 was the leading cause disease burden in the region, with 20,437,321 DALYs in 2020 and 31,525,824 in 2021. Premature mortality (years of life lost) accounted for over 95%. Disparities existed across sexes, age groups, and countries, with Bolivia and Peru having the highest rates. A significant 2021 correlation was found ($rho$ = −0.55, 95% CI: -0.90 to 0.19; P = 0.013) but not in 2020 ($rho$ = −0.40, 95% CI: -0.75 to 0.05; P = 0.078).

Conclusions

COVID-19 posed a significant burden in Latin America and the Caribbean, emphasising the need for targeted interventions, especially in socioeconomically disadvantaged regions.