Overview

• An analysis of Global Burden of Disease 1990–2021 data found aging was the largest contributor to rising musculoskeletal disorder burden in about one third of countries and territories.
• Healthcare costs attributable to aging-related musculoskeletal disorders reached an estimated US$96 billion in 2021, about 0.10% of global GDP.
• Osteoarthritis accounted for the largest aging-related impact globally, followed by gout and rheumatoid arthritis.
• The study identified notable sex differences, with greater impact on men in high and higher-middle income settings and greater impact on women in low to middle income settings.
• Researchers disentangled the effects of aging from population growth and changes in age-specific rates to inform tailored prevention, long-term management, and financing strategies.