The global magnitude and temporal trend of hypertensive heart disease burden attributable to high sodium intake from 1990 to 2021.

Background: The relationship between high sodium intake (HSI) and hypertensive heart disease (HHD) has been confirmed. However, notable regional disparities exist in implementing effective measures to control sodium intake. This study was carried out to estimate the spatiotemporal trends in the burden of HHD attributable to HSI.

Methods: Data obtained from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 were analyzed, considering factors such as age, gender, year, and region. Joinpoint regression analysis was applied to investigate the temporal trends in the HHD burden resulting from HSI over the past 32 years.

Results: From 1990 to 2021, the global cases of HHD increased significantly annually. The age-standardized prevalence rates showed a slow gradual increase. However, both the age-standardized death and disability-adjusted life-year (DALY) rates decreased. Specifically, HSI was responsible for 29.2% of total HHD deaths and 30.4% of total DALYs in 1990 but only 22.8% of total HHD deaths and 23.4% of total DALYs in 2021. A greater burden from HSI exposure was observed among men, older adults and people living in middle and low sociodemographic index (SDI) countries and regions. Moreover, over the 32-year period, Guam and Colombia demonstrated the highest reduction in age-standardized death and DALY rates, respectively.

Conclusion: Globally, the age-standardized burden of HHD due to HSI has demonstrated a decline. Although some areas have effectively managed this issue, it remains a challenge in specific areas. Hence, it is crucial to examine and implement the strategies adopted by successful nations to further mitigate this burden.