Forecast of the socioeconomic burden of COPD in the Russian Federation in 2022

ABSTRACT

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by a high level of morbidity and mortality and is associated with significant social and economic losses for the health care system and society. Aim. To predict the socio-economic burden of COPD in the Russian Federation in 2022, including the cost of drug treatment. Methods. The socio-economic burden of COPD in the Russian Federation in 2022 was predicted with and without taking into account the impact of COVID-19. The analysis of the cost of illness included the calculation of direct and indirect costs due to COPD. Data of Federal State Statistics Service, the State Guarantee Program of Free Medical Care for Citizens of Russian Federation, and data from the regional register of drug treatment of patients with COPD were used. Costs of medical care (ambulatory, hospital, and emergency care) were calculated based on compulsory health insurance tariffs. The disability benefits payments were calculated based on number of disabled persons and the amount of the disability benefit in each group. Indirect costs (or economic losses) included losses from products which were not produced due to disability and premature mortality of working-aged adults. Results. The predicted total economic losses due to COPD in 2022 will be 428.5 billion rubles when taking into account the impact of COVID-19, and 378.9 billion rubles when not accounting for COVID-19. Losses in the economy due to decreased labor productivity because of premature deaths (86%) are major part of the main burden. The cost of drug therapy for patients with COPD in outpatient settings will amount to over 17 billion rubles. Conclusion. Potential economic burden of COPD in 2022 depends on the incidence of COVID-19 and could be 0.34% of the GDP. Priority should be given to measures aimed at preventing the occurrence of COPD by correcting risk factors in the population, early diagnosis, slowing the progression of the disease and preventing exacerbations. Prevention of respiratory infections including COVID-19 in patients with COPD plays a special role.