The increasing prevalence of drug use disorders among the elderly is emerging as a pressing public health concern, with substantial variations observed across different countries and socioeconomic regions.
Opioids Dominate Elderly Drug Burden
Among various substances, opioids account for the highest disease burden among the elderly. Despite stable incidence and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) from 1990 to 2021, opioids continue to significantly impact the health of aging populations worldwide.
Regional and Gender Disparities Highlight Need for Targeted Strategies
Geographical differences reveal that high-income areas, particularly North America, face rising DALYs for all four drug use disorders, whereas other regions experience stable or declining trends. Additionally, future projections indicate an upward trajectory in DALYs, especially among elderly men in these high-burden regions.
- Population growth drives increased DALYs in most regions.
- Epidemiological shifts chiefly affect high-income North America.
- Cocaine-related DALYs are rising despite consistent incidence rates.
- Burden from amphetamines and cannabis remains generally stable.
Mitigating the burden of drug use disorders in the elderly necessitates tailored public health policies and strategic medical resource distribution. Focusing efforts on high-impact regions and demographics will enhance the effectiveness of interventions. Continuous monitoring and predictive analyses are essential to adapt strategies to evolving trends and safeguard the health of the aging population.
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