Long-term trends in interstitial lung diseases incidence in Spain

This study analysed long-term trends in interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) incidence in Spain from 1992 to 2021, focusing on age, sex and temporal patterns.

We conducted an ecological trend study using data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study 2021. Age-standardized incidence rates (ASIRs) were calculated, and joinpoint regression was applied to evaluate temporal trends. An age-period-cohort (A-P-C) analysis was performed to assess the influence of age, calendar periods, and birth cohorts on incidence patterns.

From 1992 to 2021, 141,141 incident cases of ILDs were estimated in Spain, with a slight male predominance (53.2%). ASIRs increased over the study period, with an average annual percentage change (AAPC) of 1.3% for men and 1.7% for women. Incidence rates rose with age, peaking in the 70-79 age group for both sexes. A-P-C analysis identified cohort effects, with later-born cohorts showing higher risks of ILDs. Period effects indicated a steady increase in incidence. Men consistently exhibited higher incidence rates than women, although the gap narrowed slightly over time.

The increasing incidence of ILDs in Spain underscores a growing public health challenge. Early diagnosis, targeted interventions, and ongoing research are vital to mitigate this rising burden.