Introduction Lower extremity peripheral arterial disease (LEPAD) significantly impacts the elderly population, with increasing prevalence globally. This study analyzes the global, regional, and national burden of LEPAD in individuals aged 60 and above from 1990 to 2021, using data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021. Methods We examined age-standardized prevalence rates (ASPR), incidence rates (ASIR), and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) across 204 countries. Trends over time were assessed using Estimated Annual Percentage Change (EAPC), and future projections were made through a Bayesian age-period-cohort model. Results In 2021, the elderly population experienced 87.5 million LEPAD cases, a 105.5% increase since 1990. ASPR declined slightly (EAPC: −0.52) despite rising absolute cases, reflecting aging populations. High SDI regions had the highest prevalence but also the greatest reductions over time. Regional disparities were notable, with Eastern and Central Europe facing the highest DALYs. Projections to 2040 suggest continued increases in LEPAD burden, with gender disparities persisting. Conclusion LEPAD remains a growing global health challenge, driven by aging populations. Targeted interventions are needed, particularly in low-middle SDI regions, to address the escalating burden of LEPAD among the elderly.
Yang et al. (Thu,) studied this question.