Prostate cancer burden in major BRICS countries, 1990–2019: findings from the 2019 global burden of disease study

Background This study assessed prostate cancer burden and trends in major BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) from 1990 to 2019. Methods Utilizing Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 data, we calculated age-standardized rates for prostate cancer incidence, prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) with 95% uncertainty intervals (UIs). Joinpoint regression analysis determined the average annual percentage change (AAPC) for trend characterization. Results Prostate cancer ranked highest in China for incidence, prevalence, mortality, and DALYs. In 2019, Brazil had the highest age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) [55.029 (95% UI: 47.744–81.831)] and age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR) [372.511 (95% UI: 327.549–549.128)], while South Africa recorded the highest age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) [42.241 (95% UI: 32.146–47.933)], and age-standardized DALY rate (ASDR) [666.085 (95% UI: 522.626–764.612)]. ASIR and ASPR increased significantly over three decades (AAPC > 0), with varying ASMR and ASDR trends. Conclusion Prostate cancer poses a significant public health challenge. While incidence and prevalence rise, mortality declines in China, India, and Brazil. Tailored health policies are crucial to address diverse disease burden characteristics.