Global, regional, and national childhood brain and central nervous system cancer burden: An analysis based on the Global Burden of Disease Study

Objectives We assessed the global, regional, and national burden of childhood brain and central nervous system cancer from 1990 to 2021 (the latest year). Methods We utilized data from the 2021 Global Burden of Disease Study, we analyzed trends in childhood brain and central nervous system cancer through joinpoint regression. We assessed the global burden of childhood brain and central nervous system cancer from various perspectives. Lastly, The Bayesian age-period-cohort model was employed to forecast future trends through 2030 Results Childhood brain and CNS cancers are the most common solid tumors and the leading cause of death in children. From 1990 to 2021, age-standardized incidence, prevalence, mortality, and DALYs have shown a decreasing trend. The incidence is slightly higher in boys than in girls and peaking at ages 0–4 years, decreasing with age. The disease burden correlates with socio-demographic indices, with higher burdens observed in regions with higher socio-demographic indices. Future projections indicate a continued decline in incidence, prevalence, mortality, and DALYs. Conclusions While the global burden of childhood brain and CNS cancer has significantly decreased due to medical advancements, it continues to be a major cause of childhood mortality. Further optimization of global health resources is crucial to alleviating this burden.