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Costs attributable to AIDS at household level in Chad
K Wyss1, G Hutton, Y N'Diekhor
1Swiss Centre for International Health Swiss Tropical Institute Basel, Switzerland. kaspar.wyss@unibas.ch
AIDS Care
|September 24, 2004
Summary
The economic burden of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in Chad is substantial, costing households $836 per case. AIDS significantly increases household expenditures, particularly for healthcare, leading to devastating financial consequences.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Economics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) poses a significant economic challenge, particularly in low-income countries.
- Understanding household-level economic impacts is crucial for developing effective support strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the economic costs of AIDS at the household level in Chad.
- To identify the main cost drivers and coping mechanisms employed by affected households.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 193 AIDS patients matched with controls in four regions of Chad.
- Data collection on household expenditures and productivity losses using a standard questionnaire.
Main Results:
- The average household cost attributable to AIDS up to the patient's death was US$836.
- Health care expenditures (56%) and productivity losses (28%) constituted the largest cost components.
- AIDS-affected households relied more on borrowing and asset sales compared to control households.
Conclusions:
- The economic consequences of AIDS are devastating for households in Chad, necessitating innovative support strategies.
- Strengthening care and treatment services is essential to mitigate the financial impact on families affected by HIV/AIDS.