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Infertility: a preventable epidemic?
1Dept. of Obstetrics/Gynecology, New York University School of Medicine, New York.
International Journal of Fertility
|July 1, 1988
Summary
Preventing infertility, particularly that caused by sexually transmitted diseases, is significantly more cost-effective than treating it. This study highlights the economic benefits of focusing on prevention strategies for infertility.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Public Health Economics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Infertility presents a significant socioeconomic burden globally.
- Current infertility treatments have limited success rates, excluding ovulation induction.
- The economic impact of infertility, especially due to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), is substantial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the economic burden of infertility investigation and treatment.
- To compare the costs of infertility treatment with the potential costs of prevention.
- To advocate for preventative measures against infertility.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire survey was conducted to gather data on the costs associated with infertility.
- Economic analysis was performed to estimate treatment costs versus prevention costs.
Main Results:
- The estimated cost of infertility resulting from STDs is approximately $64 billion.
- The estimated cost for preventing infertility is significantly lower, around $335,000.
Conclusions:
- There is a critical need to shift focus from infertility treatment to prevention.
- Preventative strategies, particularly for STD-related infertility, offer immense economic advantages.
- Implementing preventative measures is a highly cost-effective approach to managing infertility.