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Published on: June 11, 2012
Treating mild gestational diabetes mellitus: a cost-effectiveness analysis.
Mika S Ohno1, Teresa N Sparks, Yvonne W Cheng
1Department of Obstetrics, University of California, CA, USA.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|November 11, 2011
Summary
Treating mild gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is cost-effective, improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes. The intervention yields significant benefits at an acceptable cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY).
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Health Economics
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Mild gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) poses risks to maternal and neonatal health.
- The economic implications of managing mild GDM require thorough investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the cost-effectiveness of treating mild GDM.
- To evaluate the impact of mild GDM treatment on quality-adjusted life years (QALYs).
Main Methods:
- A decision analytic model was employed to compare treatment versus no treatment for mild GDM.
- Data on probabilities, costs, and benefits were synthesized from existing literature.
- The primary metric was the incremental cost per QALY, with sensitivity and simulation analyses performed.
Main Results:
- Treatment of mild GDM was found to be more expensive yet more effective, with a cost-effectiveness of $20,412 per QALY.
- Cost-effectiveness was maintained if the incremental cost was below $3555 or if treatment efficacy reached 49% of baseline.
- Key benefits included reduced rates of preeclampsia, cesarean sections, and neonatal complications.
Conclusions:
- Treatment of mild GDM is a cost-effective strategy for enhancing maternal and neonatal outcomes.
- Improved outcomes encompass reduced risks of preeclampsia, cesarean delivery, macrosomia, and various neonatal morbidities.
- The findings support the clinical and economic value of managing mild GDM.
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