Global Burden of Cardiovascular Disease Attributable to Kidney Dysfunction and Trends, 1990-2021

This study analyzed global cardiovascular disease (CVD) burden linked to kidney dysfunction (1990-2021) using Global Burden of Disease 2021 data.

Age-standardised death (ASDR: EAPC = -1.57) and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs: EAPC = -1.44) rates declined globally, with consistent sex-based reductions. Burden escalated with age, disproportionately affecting older populations.

Among 19 regions, 18 showed ASDR declines; 20 regions had reduced DALYs. Australasia saw the steepest decreases (ASDR EAPC = -4.20; DALYs EAPC = -4.41), while Southern Sub-Saharan Africa experienced increases (ASDR EAPC = 0.51; DALYs EAPC = 0.34). High Socio-demographic Index (SDI) regions exhibited the largest declines (ASDR EAPC = -3.38; DALYs EAPC = -3.19). In 2021, Central Asia had the highest regional ASDR (70.71/100000) and DALYs (1243.96/100000), while Nauru recorded peak national rates (ASDR = 96.88; DALYs = 2268.19). Global CVD burden from kidney dysfunction decreased overall but revealed stark regional disparities. High-SDI regions achieved significant progress, whereas Central Asia and Nauru remained high-burden areas.

Aging populations correlated with rising rates, underscoring persistent age-related risks. Findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions in regions with stagnant or increasing trends and highlight sociodemographic influences on disease distribution. Sustained monitoring and age-specific preventive strategies are crucial to mitigate this health challenge.