Burden of lower extremity peripheral arterial disease in the Western Pacific region, 1990-2021: a comparative analysis.

BACKGROUND: Lower extremity peripheral arterial disease (PAD) significantly impairs limb function, yet research is limited. This study utilized data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study to analyze the epidemiological trends of PAD in the Western Pacific region. METHODS: This study analyzed PAD burden among individuals aged ≥40 in four representative countries during 1990-2021, using the GBD 2021 dataset, including prevalence, incidence, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). The sociodemographic index (SDI) was used to quantify developmental status. Joinpoint regression analysis was employed to assess temporal trends. The Bayesian age-period-cohort model was utilized to predict incidence through 2041. RESULTS: In 2021, the Philippines had the highest incidence, prevalence, and DALY rates, followed by China and Japan. The affected population in the Philippines was younger than in other countries, indicating a uniquely severe burden. China had the highest number of new cases, with 2 447 372 in 2021. Women had a higher disease burden. Incidence, prevalence, and DALY rates all peaked in older age groups. From 1990 to 2021, the PAD burden in China and the Philippines showed an upward trend, whereas that in Japan and South Korea showed a downward trend. Future projections indicate that China will experience an increase in disease burden. CONCLUSION: PAD imposes a substantial burden in the Western Pacific region. Middle-SDI regions should address its socioeconomic impacts and strengthen prevention strategies, while high-SDI regions should focus on disease control in the elderly. PAD serves as an indicator of arterial health. Preventing PAD may block more fatal cardiovascular events.