Mental Disorders, Musculoskeletal Disorders and Income-Driven Patterns: Evidence from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2017

Background: The aim of the present study was to use the extensive Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) database from 1990–2017 to evaluate the levels and temporal correlation trends between disability adjusted life years (DALYs) attributed to musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders, all mental disorders collectively and by mental disorder sub-category. Methods: We utilized results of the GBD 2017 to describe the correlation patterns between DALYs due to MSK disorders, mental disorders and other diseases among 195 countries. Mixed model analysis was also applied. Results: A consistent relation was reported between age-adjusted DALYs attributed to MSK and mental disorders (in total) among the 195 countries, in both sexes, for 1990 to 2017 (1990 Rho = 0.487; 2017 Rho = 0.439 p < 0.05). Distinct regional and gender correlation patterns between age-adjusted DALYs due to MSK and mental disorders were reported. No correlation was reported between DALYs due to MSK and all mental disorders collectively, among Low- or Middle-income countries. However, in High-income countries (HICs), the correlation was strong and consistent between 1990 and 2017 (1990 Rho = 0.735; 2017 Rho = 0.727, p < 0.05). Conclusions: The reported correlation patterns call for targeted preventive strategies and intervention policies for mental and MSK disorders internationally. Special attention is needed among HICs.