Economic evaluation of Mectizan distribution.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Tropical Medicine
• Health Economics

Background:

• Onchocerciasis control has been transformed by ivermectin distribution.
• Previous economic analyses highlight the significant positive impact of these programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the economic impact and cost-effectiveness of ivermectin distribution programs for onchocerciasis control.

Main Methods:

• Economic evaluations using net present value (NPV) and cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA).
• Analysis considered benefits like increased labor productivity and land availability.
• Discount rate of 10% applied to future health and productivity gains.

Main Results:

• The Onchocerciasis Control Program (OPC) in West Africa shows an NPV of $485 million over 39 years.
• The African Program for Onchocerciasis Control (APOC) has an NPV of $88 million over 21 years.
• Cost per disability-adjusted life-year (DALY) prevented ranges from $14-$30, comparable to other priority programs.

Conclusions:

• Ivermectin distribution is a highly cost-effective public health intervention for onchocerciasis.
• The economic success is heavily influenced by the free donation of ivermectin by Merck.
• Ivermectin distribution remains a critical public health priority pending new treatments.