Analysis of asthma incidence and mortality rates among children aged 0–14 in 204 countries from 1990 to 2019

Abstract

Objective Asthma is a common chronic respiratory disease in children. Understanding incidence and mortality trends is crucial for prevention and intervention strategies. Methods Data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study were used to analyze asthma incidence and mortality trends among children aged 0–14 in 204 countries from 1990 to 2019. The 30-year trends were calculated using the Estimated Annual Percentage Change (EAPC). Results Globally, pediatric asthma cases increased from 18,857,697 in 1990 to 20,191,786 in 2019. Incidence rates for children <5, 5–9, and 10–14 years are 1509.36, 980.25, and 586.95 per 100,000, respectively. Over 30 years, pediatric asthma mortality rates significantly decreased from 1.59 to 0.51 per 100,000, with minimal gender differences. High-income North America, Tropical Latin America, and the Caribbean show the highest incidence rates at 3203.2, 2493.83, and 2314.8 per 100,000. The USA, Puerto Rico, and Haiti have the highest national rates at 3357.17, 2695.30, and 2605.38 per 100,000. Regions with higher Sociodemographic Index levels tend to have higher incidence rates. Pediatric asthma prevalence varies by region and age group. Conclusion Our study of asthma incidence and mortality rates among children aged 0–14 across 204 countries from 1990 to 2019 reveals significant global disparities. These findings underscore the influence of socioeconomic and environmental factors on asthma prevalence and outcomes.