Economic burden of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) to patients: comparative study, by D Araja, E Brenna, RM Hunter, D Pheby, U Berkis, A Lunga, M Murovska in Value in Health, Vol 22, Supp 3, Nov 2019, Page S909 [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jval.2019.09.2671] ABSTRACT ONLY
Abstract:
Objectives:
Research is performed in framework of COST (European Cooperation inScience and Technology) Action 15111 EUROMENE (European Myalgic Encephalo-myelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) Research Network) to investigate the opportunities for evaluation of economic impact of ME/CFS to patients.
Methods:
To achieve the objectives of this research, a study based on patient-reported survey has been carried out in Latvia, Italy and the United Kingdom (UK). The survey included questions concerning the socio-economic consequences of the disease, particularly regarding the health care costs. For data processing and analysis, the methods of economic analysis and statistical analysis are embraced.
Results:
In Latvia the survey has been launched with coverage of 100 patients (with dominance income of €500 per household member monthly). The results show that 1% of respondents spend more than €100 as an out-pocket payment for medicines and health care services monthly, 1.8% spend €51-100 for medicines, health care services and food supplements monthly, 17.2% spend €21-50, and 80% of respondents spend until €20 monthly to reduce the ME/CFS consequences.
The study performed in Italy with 87 participants suffered by ME/CFS found that 23% were unemployed and 55% had an income less than €15.000 annually. Patients spend average €210 monthly on medication and therapy.
A study conducted in the UK covered 262 patients with ME/CFS and healthy controls. The analysis shows marked lower economic well-being of people with ME/CFS in comparison with healthy controls. Average adjusted income for participants with CFS/ME was £12.242, but for healthy controls -£23.126. Considering the prevalence of ME/CFS in the UK population, the total cost of illness was estimated at £1.713 million per year.
Conclusions:
The patient-reported outcomes is a significant tool to collect the data for evaluation of socio-economic impact of ME/CFS, but for comparative studies the purchasing power parities should be taken into account.
