Abstract
WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS TOPIC? Digestive diseases (DDs) are a global health concern with a substantial epidemiological and economic impact, given their high prevalence. WHAT IS ADDED BY THIS REPORT? This study investigated the trends in mortality related to DDs in China from 1987 to 2021, focusing on the urban-rural divide. Additionally, it aimed to determine the specific impacts of age, period, and cohort on DDs mortality. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH PRACTICE? There is a need to prioritize and allocate more resources toward the future management of DDs in order to effectively address the challenges posed by urbanization and aging populations.