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Cost of community gastroenteritis
Margaret E Hellard1, Marthai I Sinclair, Anthony H Harris
1Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. margaret.hellard@med.monash.edu.au
Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology
|February 27, 2003
Summary
Endemic gastroenteritis in Australia causes over 15 million cases annually, resulting in significant healthcare and productivity costs. This study quantifies the substantial economic burden of this common illness.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Health Economics
Background:
- Gastroenteritis is a prevalent illness causing significant morbidity in developed nations.
- Endemic, non-outbreak-associated gastroenteritis accounts for the majority of cases, yet its societal impact and resource needs are under-researched.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the incidence rate of endemic gastroenteritis in Australia.
- To quantify healthcare utilization, including doctor visits and medication use.
- To determine the overall economic cost of gastroenteritis in Australia.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from community-based studies, a general practice surveillance network, and national statistical bodies (Australian Bureau of Statistics, Health Insurance Commission).
- Extrapolated findings to the broader Australian population to estimate national impact.
Main Results:
- Estimated 0.8 cases of gastroenteritis per person annually, totaling over 15 million cases nationwide.
- Calculated over 1 million general practitioner visits, with significant costs for direct medical care and medication (prescribed and over-the-counter).
- Quantified substantial productivity losses due to time off work, totaling over 137 million Australian dollars, with an overall estimated economic burden exceeding 342 million Australian dollars.
Conclusions:
- Endemic gastroenteritis represents a significant public health concern with considerable economic implications, even when individual cases are mild.
- The findings underscore the need for further research into the primary causes of endemic gastroenteritis to inform prevention and management strategies.