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BMC Pulmonary Medicine
Published in: BMC Pulmonary Medicine 1/2009

Open Access 01-12-2009 | Research article

Economic burden of asthma: a systematic review

Authors: Katayoun Bahadori, Mary M Doyle-Waters, Carlo Marra, Larry Lynd, Kadria Alasaly, John Swiston, Js Mark FitzGerald

Published in: BMC Pulmonary Medicine | Issue 1/2009

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Abstract

Background

Asthma is associated with enormous healthcare expenditures that include both direct and indirect costs. It is also associated with the loss of future potential earnings related to both morbidity and mortality. The objective of the study is to determine the burden of disease costs associated with asthma.

Methods

We performed a systematic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, CDSR, OHE-HEED, and Web of Science Databases between 1966 and 2008.

Results

Sixty-eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Hospitalization and medications were found to be the most important cost driver of direct costs. Work and school loss accounted for the greatest percentage of indirect costs. The cost of asthma was correlated with comorbidities, age, and disease severity.

Conclusion

Despite the availability of effective preventive therapy, costs associated with asthma are increasing. Strategies including education of patients and physicians, and regular follow-up are required to reduce the economic burden of asthma.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
Economic burden of asthma: a systematic review
Authors
Katayoun Bahadori
Mary M Doyle-Waters
Carlo Marra
Larry Lynd
Kadria Alasaly
John Swiston
Js Mark FitzGerald
Publication date
01-12-2009
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Pulmonary Medicine / Issue 1/2009
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2466
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2466-9-24

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