Analysis and comparison of trends in the burden of subarachnoid hemorrhage in china and globally, 1990–2021

BACKGROUND: Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), the rarest form of hemorrhagic stroke, is associated with high mortality and disability rates. Therefore, it is a major public health concern. METHODS: This study reviewed the epidemiological characteristics of SAH in China and worldwide, focusing on the 2021 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database. Researchers, using the GBD database, conducted epidemiological studies that included joinpoint regression analyses covering the incidence, mortality, prevalence, and disability-adjusted life years of SAH in the years 1990-2021. This analysis revealed the trends and effects of SAH in China and globally. RESULTS: From 1990 to 2021, the age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) in China decreased from 17.96 to 7.81 per 100,000 people. The age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) decreased from 27.29 to 4.72 per 100,000 people. This resulted in a 51.58 % reduction in mortality. In contrast, both the ASIR and ASMR showed a slower decline at the global level. China has reported that women aged 70 years and older are at a high risk for SAH. Furthermore, middle-aged men have high prevalence and mortality rates. CONCLUSIONS: The current observations warrant the design of focused interventions for both the elderly and female patients with oblique stroke. They can be useful for addressing the SAH burden globally. This study provides valuable information regarding the effectiveness of existing healthcare interventions. This information can also inform future strategies for the prevention and management of SAH.