Global Trends and Inequalities in the Burden of Eye Cancer: A Comprehensive Analysis Based on the Global Burden of Disease Study

Jianhao Bai¹Zhongqi Wan²Yan Gao^3*Qing Peng^2*

• ¹Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai East Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
• ²Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
• ³Department of Ophthalmology, Shanxi Eye Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China

Background: Eye cancer is a significant threat to vision and survival because of its location, diagnostic challenges, and aggressive nature. However, its global epidemiology, especially regarding differences across countries, ages, and genders, is not well-studied.Methods: This study analyzed data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 to evaluate eye cancer trends in 204 countries from 1990 to 2021, focusing on incidence, prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALY). Age-standardized rates and estimated annual percentage changes were used to assess trends over time.Disparities were examined by socio-demographic index (SDI), sex, and age, with concentration and slope index analyses assessing development-and gender-related inequalities.Results: From 1990 to 2021, the global burden of eye cancer showed an overall increase in incidence and prevalence, with notable geographic and socio-demographic variations. Socio-demographic analysis revealed persistent inequalities, with higher detection-related prevalence and incidence in developed regions and greater mortality and disability in less developed areas. Age-specific prevalence demonstrated a Global Eye Cancer Burden and Inequities 2 rightward shift, with older populations, particularly those aged ≥65, carrying the largest burden. Gender disparities were also evident, as men generally exhibited higher incidence and prevalence rates, while women in low-SDI regions faced a disproportionate share of mortality and DALY burden.This study highlights significant global disparities in eye cancer, influenced by socio-demographic factors, sex, and age. Urgent investment in diagnostic infrastructure, equitable care, and gender-sensitive measures is essential to reduce preventable vision loss and cancer deaths.