Total Annual Economic Burden of Patients with Sickle Cell Disease in Steady State in Greece

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Public Health
• Health Economics

Background:

• Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited hemolytic anemias characterized by abnormal hemoglobin (Hb S).
• Population migration patterns are increasing the prevalence of sickle cell disease globally, impacting healthcare systems.
• Greece faces a growing need to manage sickle cell disease due to these demographic shifts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate the total annual treatment cost of sickle cell disease in Greece.
• To provide the first economic assessment for sickle cell disease patients in a steady state within the country.
• To contextualize these costs within Greece's national pharmaceutical expenditure.

Main Methods:

• Cost estimation for sickle cell disease treatment in Greece.
• Analysis of steady-state patient treatment costs.
• Comparison of sickle cell disease treatment expenditure against the national pharmaceutical budget.

Main Results:

• The estimated annual cost for sickle cell disease treatment in Greece is €21,152,340.00 (US$25,219,300.41).
• This figure excludes the significant costs associated with hospitalizations for severe complications.
• Sickle cell disease treatment accounts for approximately 1.0% of Greece's annual pharmaceutical spending budget.

Conclusions:

• The economic burden of sickle cell disease in Greece is substantial, even before accounting for severe complications.
• Approximately 1.0% of the pharmaceutical budget is allocated to managing sickle cell disease.
• These findings are critical for healthcare planning and resource allocation for genetic blood disorders in Greece and similar settings.