Abstract
BACKGROUND: Otitis media (OM) is a prevalent and serious condition in childhood, but comprehensive global studies assessing its burden are lacking. METHODS: Using data from the 2021 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study, we analyzed OM incidence cases and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) in children aged 0-14 from 1990 to 2021. Trends were analyzed across regions, age groups, sexes, and socio-demographic index (SDI) using estimated annual percentage changes (EAPC). Predictive models were used to forecast trends to 2050. RESULTS: The global number of OM incidence cases in children increased from 256 million in 1990 to 297 million in 2021, a 15.97% rise. The age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) showed a slight increase (EAPC: 0.12). Despite some variations across age, sex, and regions, the age-standardized DALY rate (ASDR) declined. ASIR and ASDR were highest in children aged < 1 year and gradually decreased with age. The largest burden was observed in low- and middle-low-SDI regions, although these regions showed the greatest declines in EAPC. Correlation analysis indicated that ASDR decreases as the SDI increases. By 2050, the number of global OM incidence cases in children is projected to reach 334 million, with most of the increase concentrated in low-SDI regions, while ASIR is expected to remain stable. CONCLUSION: Although progress has been made in controlling OM in children over the past 30 years, the ASIR remains high. The sustained high burden and incidence of OM in low-SDI regions, and among young children, pose a significant challenge to children's health.