Cost analysis of upper gastrointestinal disorders in Tehran province: A population-based study, 2005-2006

Background: Dyspepsia and gastro-oesophageal reflux diseases (GERD) are very widespread in the community throughout the world. The aim of this study was to determine the direct and indirect cost of GERD and dyspepsia in the general population.

Methods: From May 2005 to December 2006, a cross-sectional study conducted in Tehran province; including 18,180 individuals with GI symptoms drawn up randomly and interviewed using a valid questionnaire. The frequency of health resource utilization (i.e. physician visit, hospitalization, and medications) and productivity loss (days off work) due to GERD and dyspepsia symptoms in the past 6 months were recorded. Cost of illness per person per year was estimated in purchasing power parity dollars (PPP$).

Results: The cost of illness per person per six-month for patients with GERD, and dyspepsia alone were around PPP$111(320609Rials) and PPP$120(345935Rials), respectively. The direct costs of disease comprised 87.7%, 89.9%, and 75.6% of the total costs in GERD, dyspepsia and their overlap, respectively. The highest proportions of direct costs were due to hospitalization. The smallest proportion of direct costs was due to drugs.

Conclusions: The cost of dyspepsia and GERD is substantial for patients, health providers and society. Developing insurance industry can reduce the expense of these disorders, up to 50 percent.