Global, regional, and national childhood brain and central nervous system cancer burden: an analysis based on the Global Burden of Disease Study.

Objectives: We assessed the global, regional, and national burdens of childhood brain and central nervous system cancer from 1990-2021 (the latest year).

Methods: We utilized data from the 2021 Global Burden of Disease Study and analyzed trends in childhood brain and central nervous system cancers through joinpoint regression. We assessed the global burden of childhood brain and central nervous system cancers from various perspectives. Finally, the Bayesian age‒period‒cohort model was employed to forecast future trends through 2030.

Results: Childhood brain and CNS cancers are the most common solid tumors and the leading cause of death in children. From 1990 to 2021, the age-standardized incidence, prevalence, mortality, and DALYs decreased. The incidence is slightly greater in boys than in girls and peaks at 0-4 years of age, decreasing with age. The disease burden correlates with sociodemographic indices, with higher burdens observed in regions with higher sociodemographic indices. Future projections indicate a continued decline in incidence, prevalence, mortality, and DALYs.

Conclusions: While the global burden of childhood brain and CNS cancer has significantly decreased due to medical advancements, childhood cancer continues to be a major cause of childhood mortality. Further optimization of global health resources is crucial for alleviating this burden.