Estimated number of patients with other musculoskeletal disorders globally in 2050: 1.06 billion < Global News < News < Text of article

The number of people suffering from musculoskeletal diseases of joints, muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, and spine is increasing. New research shows that the number of people living with related disabilities worldwide will increase from 464 million in 2020 to 1.06 billion by 2050. Lancet Rheumatology Published in the November issue.

The Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study, led by Manasi Murthy Mittinty’s team at Flinders Medical School, measures prevalence, living years of disability and disability across 204 countries and territories and uses population, health and insurance claims data to confirm projections for 2050. used.

The researchers found that the types of musculoskeletal disorders studied in this study, excluding osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, back pain and neck pain, are large and growing causes of disability worldwide that require consideration as public policy.

Not only is the number of people suffering from systemic lupus erythematosus and other musculoskeletal disorders, such as spondylopathy, increasing globally, but their healthcare needs are likely to continue in 2050 and beyond.

The results of the study showed that other musculoskeletal disorders are a heterogeneous group of musculoskeletal disorders that are not captured elsewhere in disease-specific categories and are often overlooked in policies for musculoskeletal health.

In 2020, other musculoskeletal disorders were the 6th leading cause of disability in years lived (YLDs) and the 19th leading cause of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs).

Despite all the uncertainty, the large YLD burden suggests high demand for treatment and rehabilitation services and is supported by insurance claims data showing high numbers of health care visits.

Globally, musculoskeletal disorders are reported to be higher in women, increase overall with age, and peak at ages 60-69.

The research team said, “This study highlights the significant burden of being classified as another musculoskeletal disorder that is not otherwise recognized.”