Trends and Regional Disparities in the Global Burden of Pruritus From 1990 to 2021: A Systematic Analysis of the Global Burden of Diseases Study

Abstract: Background: Pruritus, arising from causes such as xerosis, allergic disorders, and systemic diseases, is a common symptom that can markedly impair sleep and quality of life. Despite its significant clinical and societal impact, it remains frequently underrecognized. This study aimed to characterize the global burden of pruritus from 1990 to 2021, with a focus on temporal trends and regional disparities, and to project its future trajectory through 2035. Methods: Data from the Global Burden of Diseases Study 2021 were used to examine pruritus incidence, prevalence, years lived with disability (YLDs), and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) by age, sex, region, and country. Temporal trends in age-standardized rates (ASRs) were analyzed using estimated annual percentage change and average annual percent change. Predictions were made using the Bayesian Age-Period-Cohort model. Results: In 2021, pruritus caused 80.7 million prevalence cases, 62.5 million incidence cases, 0.9 million YLDs, and 0.9 million DALYs worldwide. The burden increased with age, particularly after 49 years, and was higher in females than in males. Regionally, the highest ASRs were found in middle-sociodemographic index regions and Southeast Asia. From 1990 to 2021, the global burden of pruritus rose significantly, with the most notable increases in East Asia and the Western Pacific. The ASRs for incidence, prevalence, and YLDs are projected to continue rising annually from 2022 to 2035. Conclusion: The global burden of pruritus has increased significantly, emphasizing the need for intensified efforts to address this issue.