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The Economic Burden of Childhood Ocular Morbidity in Bangladesh

A H M Enayet Hussain1, Labida Islam2,3, Saidur Rahman Mashreky2,3

  • 1Division of Public Health Science, Department of Health Sciences, Mid Sweden University, Sundsvall, Sweden.

Advances in Therapy
|August 10, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Childhood ocular morbidity imposes a significant economic burden in Bangladesh, with nearly 90% of families facing catastrophic health expenditure (CHE). These findings highlight the urgent need for improved access to pediatric eye care services.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Ophthalmology
  • Health Economics

Background:

  • Childhood eye conditions represent a major public health challenge, particularly in low-income nations.
  • Understanding the economic impact of pediatric ocular morbidity is crucial for resource allocation and policy development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the economic burden of childhood ocular morbidity in Bangladesh.
  • To assess the incidence of catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) associated with pediatric eye conditions.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional mixed-methods study was conducted from April to October 2023.
  • Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with caregivers and in-depth interviews at two tertiary hospitals (one government, one private) in Bangladesh.
  • A stakeholder workshop was also incorporated into the study design.

Main Results:

  • The study identified significant direct costs for pediatric ocular morbidity, with median costs at the private hospital (7300 BDT) being higher than the government hospital (3740 BDT).
  • Disease-specific costs varied, with squint (65,000 BDT), cataract (50,000 BDT), and eye injury (30,000 BDT) representing substantial financial burdens.
  • Nearly 90% of caregivers/parents experienced catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) due to childhood eye conditions.

Conclusions:

  • The estimated costs provide a foundation for financial planning to improve access to and management of pediatric eye care.
  • These economic insights are vital for the sustainability of eye health services.
  • Urgent policy interventions are recommended to safeguard children's ocular health and prevent financial hardship for families in Bangladesh.
Abstract

Keywords:
BangladeshCatastrophic health expenditure (CHE)ChildrenLMICsOcular morbidity

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