Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Brazil: Cost of Illness Analysis

Resumo

Objective: To measure the cost of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Brazil to present an updated overview of the economic impact. Methods: A descriptive and retrospective analysis was carried out using macro and micro-costing techniques. It was based on information available in the Brazilian Ministry of Health’s databases, national and international guidelines for the clinical management of COPD, and the opinion of specialists. The time horizon adopted included the period from January to December 2019 and considered the direct medical costs linked to the provision of health care. Results: The analysis revealed that the costs of hospital management of COPD totaled BRL107,867,664.40. In addition, it was evidenced that there is a substantial increase in the cost related to the management of the stable phase of the disease according to the severity of the condition, ranging from BRL 418.50 [2019] (USD 253.69 [price year 2024]) for Stage I to BRL 4,257.53 [2019] (USD 2,580.88 [price year 2024]) for Stage IV. Conclusion: This cost analysis and the estimated prevalence of COPD identified in Brazil demonstrate the importance of implementing effective strategies and public policies aiming to reduce risk factors associated with the disease.