Global, regional, and national mortality of larynx cancer from 1990 to 2021: results from the global burden of disease study

BACKGROUND: Larynx cancer, a major upper respiratory tract malignancy, remains a global public health challenge, driven by smoking, alcohol use, and chronic inflammation, despite medical and public health advancements.

METHODS: Data from the Global Burden of Disease 2021 study were used to assess larynx cancer mortality trends from 1990 to 2021 across global, regional, and national levels. Death rates, absolute mortality numbers, and Estimated Annual Percentage Change (EAPC) were calculated.

RESULTS: Globally, the number of deaths from larynx cancer increased by 36.67% between 1990 and 2021, while death rates slightly declined, with an EAPC of -0.41. Males consistently accounted for the majority of deaths, with 100,393 deaths in 2021, though female mortality showed a larger percentage increase of 60.13% compared to 33.39% in males. Significant regional disparities were evident, with the highest death rates reported in Eastern Europe and Central Latin America, where countries like Bulgaria and Cuba recorded rates exceeding 6 per 100,000 population. In contrast, Oceania reported the lowest rates, below 0.5 per 100,000. The elderly (75 + years) experienced the largest increase in mortality, rising by 85.4%, while deaths among the 15-49 age group remained relatively stable. Additionally, larynx cancer death rates were correlated with SDI.

CONCLUSION: Despite slight declines in global death rates, the absolute burden of larynx cancer has increased due to population growth and aging. Regional disparities emphasize the need for targeted interventions and improved healthcare access. This study offers valuable insights for policy and resource planning.