Global Burden and Gender Disparities in Head and Neck Cancers Among Adults Aged 40–64, 1990–2021: A Systematic Analysis From the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021

ABSTRACT Background Head and neck cancer (HNC) is a significant global health concern, with incidence rising after the age of 40. This study aims to analyze the trends in prevalence, incidence, mortality, and disability‐adjusted life years (DALYs), focusing on regional and gender differences. Methods This research utilized data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 study. Key metrics such as the age‐standardized prevalence rate (ASPR), age‐standardized incidence rate (ASIR), age‐standardized mortality rate (ASMR), and age‐standardized disability‐adjusted life years rate (ASDR) were analyzed. These metrics were used to examine trends from 1990 to 2021, focusing on gender and regional differences, and projections were made using the Nordpred method to predict future disease burdens up to 2045. The analysis covered 204 countries and regions and focused on cancers of the lip and oral cavity, nasopharynx, other pharynx, and larynx. Results From 1990 to 2021, the prevalence of HNC in the 40–64 age group nearly doubled, yet the ASPR remained stable. In contrast, ASIR, ASMR, and ASDR showed a decreasing trend. The analysis revealed significant gender differences, with males generally exhibiting higher ASIR, ASMR, and ASDR than females. However, the prevalence and incidence rates among females showed a faster increase in certain regions, particularly in lower SDI countries. Conclusion The study concludes that while the overall burden of HNC has shifted with a stable ASPR and decreasing ASIR, ASMR, and ASDR, gender‐specific and region‐specific strategies are essential to effectively address the risk factors associated with HNC.