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[Resource utilization and costs in osteoporosis]
S C Kowalski1, V L Sjenzfeld, M B Ferraz
1Disciplina de Reumatologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP. sergiokowalski@ig.com.br
Revista Da Associacao Medica Brasileira (1992)
|January 29, 2002
Summary
Postmenopausal osteoporosis treatment costs represent a significant financial burden, consuming 11% of patients' average monthly income. This highlights the need for health policies informed by economic analysis to manage rising osteoporosis incidence.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Health Economics
Context:
- Osteoporosis, characterized by low bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration, leads to increased fracture risk.
- Postmenopausal osteoporosis significantly impacts patients' quality of life and healthcare resource utilization.
- Fractures of the hip, spine, and wrist are common complications, affecting any bone.
Purpose:
- To assess the resource utilization and annual costs associated with postmenopausal osteoporosis.
- To evaluate the economic impact of osteoporosis from a societal perspective.
- To inform health policy decisions regarding resource allocation for osteoporosis management.
Summary:
- A study of 100 postmenopausal women with osteoporosis revealed a mean age of 66 and monthly income of R$ 534.14 (US$ 456 in 1998).
- Patients averaged 7 visits annually, with 77% using calcium and 38% using estrogens.
- The mean total annual cost of osteoporosis treatment was R$ 908.18 (US$ 776 in 1998) per patient.
Impact:
- Osteoporosis treatment costs constituted 11% of patients' mean monthly income.
- The findings underscore the substantial economic burden of osteoporosis on individuals.
- Economic analysis is crucial for developing effective health policies to address the growing incidence of osteoporosis in an aging population.