Global Burden of Vertebral Fractures and Spinal Cord Injuries Due to Falls From 1990 to 2021: A Population-Based Study

Study Design Meta-analysis-based calculation. Objectives Falls are the primary cause of vertebral fractures and spinal cord injuries (SCI). We aimed to analyze the burden and trends of vertebral fractures and SCI due to falls. Methods We extracted data on the incidence, prevalence, and years lived with disability (YLDs) of vertebral fractures and SCI due to falls in 21 regions and 204 countries. Estimated annual percentage changes and the Joinpoint regression analysis was used to assess time trends. And we used the Bayesian Age-Period-Cohort model to project the burden for the next 15 years. Then, We developed smoothed curve models and used Spearman’s correlation coefficient to analyze the relationship between the Socio-Demographic Index (SDI) and the burden. Finally, frontier analysis was applied to evaluate the effective differences. Results In 2021, there were 4.73 million new cases of vertebral fractures and 3.67 million prevalent cases, and SCI accounted for .3 million new cases and 6.94 million prevalent cases. Although age-standardized rates (ASRs) showed a declining trend, absolute case numbers increased by more than 50% since 1990. Middle-aged males and elderly females are more vulnerable. A positive correlation was found between SDI and ASRs ( P < .001), with higher burdens in high SDI regions. Burdens continue to rise in low and middle SDI regions due to limited healthcare resources and development-related risks. Conclusions The global burden of vertebral fractures and SCI continues to grow. Prevention of falls and musculoskeletal degeneration is critical. Urgent action is needed to improve healthcare infrastructure and preventive measures.