Economic burden of asthma among patients visiting a private hospital in South India

BACKGROUND: The presence of asthma is associated with a socioeconomic burden due to both direct and indirect cost. AIM: This study aims to estimate the economic burden of asthma in terms of direct and indirect cost as also determine if the proper control and adherence to medication would result in reduced cost. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Direct cost was calculated in terms of medications, doctors visit, investigations, and hospitalizations. Indirect cost was calculated in terms of lost wages, termed as absenteeism. Asthma control was assessed using the asthma control test questionnaire. RESULTS: A total of 120 patients were included; 69 males and 51 females. The mean annual direct cost for asthma treatment was ₹18,737/year. The mean annual cost due to medications, doctor's visit, investigations, and hospitalization was ₹7,427, ₹2089/year, ₹1103/year, and ₹62,500/year, respectively. An asthma patient lost an average of 17 working days/year. The mean annual indirect cost for an asthma patient was ₹25,358, whereas, for the caregivers was ₹19,971. About 47.5% of patients had well-controlled asthma and 52.5% of patients had uncontrolled asthma. The mean annual direct cost among controlled and uncontrolled asthma patients were ₹13,010 and ₹23,918, respectively. Fifty-seven percent of patients were compliant with medication. The mean annual direct cost among compliant and non-compliant patients was ₹14,401 and ₹24,407, respectively. Percentage of hospitalization was less among the compliant group (6%) when compared with noncompliant group (17%). CONCLUSION: Asthma is not only associated with patient-specific impairment but also a significant economic burden to the family and society. Loss of productivity is another underappreciated source of economic loss.