Introduction: China has the most people with Parkinson disease (PD) in the world, and is estimated to have over half of the worldwide PD population. The objective of this study is to analyze the corresponding burden of PD in China for the past decades. Method: Data on disease burden related to PD in China were retrieved from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2019 study. The estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) were calculated to assess temporal trends, and the ratio of years lived with disability (YLDs) to disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) was used as an index to evaluate the healthcare system. Result: Nationally, the burden of PD increased from 1990 to 2019. Although the age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) increased, the age-standardized death rate (ASDR) and age-standardized DALY rate both decreased. Age-standardized rates of PD in males remained higher than those in females, but trends in ASDR and age-standardized DALY rate for females showed a pronounced decrease. The most remarkable increase in the ASIR was in individuals aged 45 to 49 years, with an EAPC of 1.74 (95% confidence interval, 1.26 to 2.21). The YLDs : DALYs ratio continuously increased compared with global figures and even with countries with high sociodemographic index (SDI). Conclusion: Although ASDR and age-standardized DALY rates for PD have been declining, the burden of PD still needs attention, as the total numbers have increased over the period. Generally, the greater burden from PD was in males. A sound health system with services tailored to PD continues to be required in the future.

The Author(s). Published by S. Karger AG, Basel