Trends in the disease burden of musculoskeletal disorders in Mexico from 1990–2019

Objective This study aimed to describe the disease burden and trends of musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders in Mexico from 1990 to 2019. Method A cross-sectional study using systematic analysis from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 (GBD study 2019) was performed to analyze data on MSK disorders and estimate crude and age-standardized rates per 100,000 population concerning disease prevalence, incidence, mortality, disability-adjusted life-years (DALY), and years lived with disability (YLD). The average annual percentage change (AAPC) was calculated using the joinpoint regression. Results In 2019, there were 4.8 million (95% UI 4.3, 5.4) new cases and 3,312 (95% UI 2201, 4,790) deaths attributable to MSK disorders. In 2019, MSK disorders ranked first, increasing from 1990 (second rank) for the YLD in Mexico. Subnational variations were identified, with the state of Oaxaca having the highest age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) per 100,000 population in 2019. Joinpoint analysis revealed a significant increase in prevalence in Mexico from 1990 to 2019 (AAPC: 0.14%; 95%CI 0.09–0.19), incidence (AAPC: 0.05%; 95%CI 0.03–0.07), DALY (AAPC: 0.13%; 95%CI 0.04–0.22), and YLD (AAPC: 0.13%; 95%CI 0.02–0.24). Among the risk factors, occupational ergonomic factors and high body mass index (BMI) had the largest influence on MSK disorders. Conclusions In Mexico, we observed an increase the national burden of MSK disorders from 1990 to 2019. Specific determinants, such as occupational ergonomic factors and high BMI, contribute to the MSK disorder burden. The burden of MSK disorders requires an improved and prompt assessment to plan valuable diagnostic and management approaches. Key Points • In Mexico, the burden of musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders increased from 1990 to 2019. • Specific risk factors, such as occupational ergonomic factors and high body mass index, contribute to the MSK disorder burden.