Economic and disease burden of prostate cancer in expanded BRICS nations: systematic analysis of global burden of disease study 1990 - 2021.

[BACKGROUND] Prostate cancer is a leading malignancy among men worldwide and an increasing challenge for emerging economies. The expanded BRICS nations represent regions undergoing rapid demographic and epidemiological transitions, yet data on their comparative disease and economic burden remain limited.

[METHODS] We analyzed data from the GBD 2021 study to estimate prostate cancer incidence, mortality, DALYs, and mortality-to-incidence ratios (MIRs) from 1990 to 2021 across BRICS+. Temporal patterns were assessed through EAPC. Productivity losses due to premature mortality were calculated using the Human Capital Approach.

[RESULTS] Incidence and mortality rose sharply in Russia and Egypt, while China and India showed declining mortality despite increasing incidence. MIRs decreased overall, reflecting improved survival, though Ethiopia and Egypt remained high. In 2021, productivity losses were greatest in China (US$73.1 billion) and Russia (US$19.5 billion), with comparatively lower losses in Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the UAE.

[CONCLUSION] Prostate cancer imposes a heterogeneous but rising health and economic burden across BRICS+ nations. Effective strategies integrating prevention, early detection, equitable treatment-access, and recognition of economic impact are critical to reduce disparities and improve outcomes.