Global burden of musculoskeletal disorders in postmenopausal women across 204 countries and territories: a systematic analysis of the 2021 Global Burden of Disease Study with projections to 2050
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Objective
This study aimed to systematically analyze the epidemiological characteristics of six major musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among postmenopausal women globally from 1990 to 2021, with a focus on the spatiotemporal distribution patterns of disease prevalence and associated disability-adjusted life years (DALYs).
Methods
Utilizing the 2021 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database, we examined six MSDs in postmenopausal women: rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, low back pain, neck pain, gout, and other musculoskeletal disorders. Age-standardized rates (ASRs) were calculated using internationally recognized methods, and estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) were employed to assess temporal trends in disease burden. The analysis incorporated considerations of age structure, sociodemographic index (SDI), and various risk factors.
Results
From 1990 to 2021, the global burden of MSDs among postmenopausal women showed a persistent increase, with marked heterogeneity across disease subtypes and geographical regions. Osteoarthritis represented the predominant disease burden, while gout exhibited the most rapid growth despite its lower baseline prevalence. Notably, low back pain was the only subtype demonstrating a declining trend. The burden of MSDs shifted from high-SDI regions to developing areas, with middle-SDI countries emerging as new priorities for intervention. Older age groups bore a disproportionately high disease burden, and obesity was identified as the leading risk factor driving disease progression, whereas tobacco control measures showed positive effects. Projections indicated that MSD burden will continue to rise with population aging, necessitating tailored prevention and management strategies to address this major public health challenge.
Conclusion
The prevalence of MSDs among postmenopausal women continues to rise, underscoring its profound impact on global health in aging female populations. To address this challenge, a multidimensional intervention approach is required, including: (1) enhanced early screening and standardized management of MSD-related risk factors; (2) personalized lifestyle interventions based on individual BMI levels; and (3) implementation of differentiated public health policies tailored to population-specific characteristics. The comprehensive adoption of these measures will help improve musculoskeletal health in postmenopausal women and reduce the overall disease burden attributable to MSDs.
