The burden of type 2 diabetes in China from 1990 to 2021: A comparative analysis with G20 countries using the global burden of disease study 2021

Objectives

The study aims to evaluate the burden of Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) in China from 1990 to 2021, and compare to it across G20 countries. 

Methods

We utilized data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 to examine the burden of T2D in China from 1990 to 2021. Prevalence, mortality, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), years of life lost (YLLs), and years lived with disability (YLDs) were calculated. Comparative analyses were conducted with other G20 countries. 

Results

T2D prevalence in China increased between 1990 and 2021, with rates rising from 3519.8 (3138.3–3910.1) to 6055.5 (5510.1–6614.3) per 100,000. The death rates slightly decreased from 9.3 (8.2–10.5) per 100,000 to 8.7 (7.3–10.3). The DALYs rate increased from 438.7 (358.5–531.5) to 569.8 (435.4–734.2), with increases observed in YLDs and YLLs. Males had a heavier disease burden in China. Compared to G20 countries, China ranked high in prevalence but had relatively better mortality outcomes in older age groups. 

Conclusion

This study reveals the enormous burden and remarkable control efforts of T2D in China. Comparative analysis emphasizes the importance of tailored public health interventions to address this growing health crisis.