A significant international study revealed a concerning trend: metabolic health issues, including obesity, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure, now contribute to nearly 50 percent more years lost to disease or premature death compared to the year 2000.
Published in The Lancet, the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study 2021 analyzed data from 204 countries and territories to identify leading causes of illness and early mortality, measured in disability-adjusted life years (DALYs).
The findings underscore a notable shift in global health challenges, attributed to aging populations and evolving lifestyles. While air pollution retained its status as the primary risk factor, the study highlighted a significant increase in health burdens associated with obesity and metabolic disorders, particularly among individuals aged 15 to 49.
Despite overall progress, disparities persist, with undernutrition remaining a critical concern in regions like sub-Saharan Africa.
Lead researcher Liane Ong emphasized the potential impact of factors such as climate change, rising obesity rates, and addiction on future health trends.
In a related study, the Global Burden of Diseases team projected a global increase in life expectancy by 4.5 years by 2050, reflecting a convergence of life expectancies worldwide. However, this anticipated longevity comes with a caveat: individuals are expected to spend more years in poor health, underscoring the importance of addressing emerging health challenges.
