Mapping Disease Burden of Major Depressive Disorder and Its Risk Factors in Low- and Middle-Income Countries

MDD continues to impose a significant health burden in LMICs, disproportionately affecting females, youth, and elderly populations. The significant increase in MDD burden across all income groups after 2019 likely reflects the intensifying effects of global disruptions, with the COVID-19 pandemic being a key contributing factor. Populations with the highest burden also showed greater exposure to key risk factors.