The Economics Burden of Atopic Dermatitis

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects over 30 million people in the United States of America. Given the large and growing prevalence of AD, the associated economic burden is significant. It has been estimated that AD costs over $5 billion dollars annually. These costs include both direct and indirect costs. Direct costs include prescription medicines, visits to health care providers, hospitalizations, and transportation. Indirect costs include missed days or lost productivity at work or school, career modification, and reduced quality of life. Understanding and measuring these costs can be accomplished through rigorous economic evaluation, which is the organized process of considering inputs and outcomes of various activities. Economic evaluation has been used to contextualize the burden of AD in society. It has also been used to inform patients, providers, and other stakeholders on how to deliver the most evidence-based, efficient care possible. Understanding the economic impact of atopic dermatitis is an important aspect of delivering high quality care.

Keywords: Burden of disease; Economics; Health care costs; Quality of life.