Thirty-year changes in burden for refraction disorders in China, Japan, Korea and Singapore: a jointly prevention perspective analysis

Abstract

Background Refractive disorders are the primary causes of visual impairment; their impact and prevalence vary greatly throughout age groups and geographical locations. This study analyzes trends in the burden of refractive disorders from 1990 to 2021 and projects future trends to 2050, focusing on five Asian regions and different socio-demographic index (SDI) levels. Methods Data on the prevalence and YLDs of refractive disorders were obtained from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021. Age-standardised rates were calculated for regions with different SDI levels and five Asian countries or regions including China (mainland), Taiwan (province of China), Japan, Republic of Korea, and Singapore. Trends were analyzed using jointpoint regression, and projections were made to 2050. Results From 1990 to 2021, the global age-standardised prevalence rate (ASPR) of refractive disorders decreased by 6.5%. The most significant declines were observed in low and low-middle SDI regions (11.8% and 20%, respectively). Among the Asian regions, Taiwan (province of China) showed the greatest decrease in both ASPR (10.1%) and age-standardized YLDs (ASYLDs) (15.2%). Projections indicate that the prevalence and impact of refractive disorders in Japan and Taiwan are expected to surpass those in mainland China by the 2030s. Conclusion The burden of refractive disorders varies considerably across regions and age groups, with socioeconomic factors playing a crucial role. Targeted interventions and public health initiatives are needed to address this growing concern, particularly in aging populations and regions with limited access to eye care services.