Cost analysis of glaucoma-related-blindness in Europe

• DOI: 10.1016/j.ics.2005.05.091
• Publication Date: 2005-10-18T20:49:23Z
• Authors: P.B. Poulsen; P. Buchholz; J.G. Walt; T.L. Christensen; J. Thygesen
• Keywords: Visual Impairment; Economic cost

Abstract Objectives Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness and visual impairment. Blind and visually impaired people often face challenges due to problems with mobility, reading, socialising, working, and taking care of daily needs. The aim was to estimate treatment costs, rehabilitation (community) costs and patient costs associated with glaucoma related blindness in Europe. Methods Initially, a systematic literature review was performed. Secondly, a search among European glaucoma or blindness organisations was undertaken. Finally, a cost analysis was conducted covering Denmark, Germany, Italy, England, Ireland, France and Spain. Results Glaucoma blindness accounts for 13% of all blindness. The annual direct treatment cost for late-stage glaucoma ranged from €429 to €523. Rehabilitation costs ranged from €3859 to €8448 showing differences between countries. Cost for patient and family ranged from €7436 to €10,200. The annual total cost per patient was then between €11,758 and €19,111. However, while literature on the disease and treatment is extensive, no substantial information on the costs of going blind from glaucoma was found. Conclusions The analysis has shown that blindness related glaucoma has a wide impact on the European societies in terms of costs. However, further research is needed.