Congenital hypothyroidism control programs. A cost-benefit analysis

JAMA
|May 25, 1979
PubMed

Insights

Screening neonates for congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is cost-effective. Early detection and treatment of CH prevent mental retardation, offering significant economic benefits that outweigh program costs.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Pediatrics
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is a preventable cause of mental retardation.
  • Early screening and intervention are crucial for managing CH.
  • Public health agencies are evaluating comprehensive CH screening programs.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the cost-effectiveness of newborn screening for congenital hypothyroidism (CH).
  • To determine the economic benefits of early CH detection and treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of costs associated with CH screening, including specimen collection, laboratory analysis, and follow-up.
  • Calculation of present value for treatment costs and economic benefits (averted institutionalization, special education, increased productivity).

Main Results:

  • The estimated cost to detect and treat a single case of CH is $11,800.
  • Economic benefits, including averted costs and increased productivity, are estimated at $105,000 per case.
  • The cost-benefit ratio for CH screening and treatment is approximately 1:8.9.

Conclusions:

  • Newborn screening for congenital hypothyroidism is highly cost-effective.
  • Implementing CH screening programs yields substantial economic benefits, significantly outweighing the costs.
  • Early detection and treatment of CH are vital for preventing mental retardation and improving long-term outcomes.

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