Burden and risk factors of stroke in Vietnam from 1990 to 2021 – a systematic analysis from global burden disease 2021

Abstract

Background

Stroke is a leading cause of death in Vietnam. However, a comprehensive analysis of stroke burden remains limited. This study aims to investigate the burden of stroke and various risk factors in Vietnam from 1990 to 2021.

Study design and Methods

We utilized data from the Global Burden of Disease 2021 estimates. For the burden of stroke, we included the following variables as age-standardized rates (ASR) per 100,000 people per year: incidence, prevalence, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), and mortality. Stroke-related mortality and DALYs associated with 23 risk factors were also analyzed. Trends were analyzed using joinpoint regression analysis.

Results

In 2021, stroke was responsible for 166,954 deaths (Males:96,764; Females:70,190). The ASR for stroke incidence was 203·36 (95%CI: 190·51–271·81) per 100,000 people, exceeding 187·98 in Southeast Asia and 141·55 globally. From 1990 to 2021, stroke incidence, death, and DALYs decreased steadily, with average annual percentage changes (AAPCs) of -0·34%, -0·49%, and -0·61%. The prevalence of stroke decreased among women (AAPC:-0·19%) and increased among men (AAPC:0·26%). Metabolic risks were the largest contributors to stroke-related mortality (144·89 per 100,000) and DALYs (2,872·37 per 100,000). The analysis revealed that behavioral risks were more prevalent in males, and metabolic risks in females.

Conclusion

Stroke is the leading cause of death and disability in Vietnam. Although its overall burden has declined, the persistent and significant burden among males, coupled with specific risk factors, remains a major concern. Further researches are warranted to develop targeted interventions addressing the distinct risk factors.