The cost of childhood atopic dermatitis in a multi-ethnic Asian population : a cost-of-illness study

Abstract

Background: Childhood atopic dermatitis can often have a negative impact on quality of life for affected children and their caregivers. The condition contributes to increased healthcare costs and can pose heavy economic burdens on healthcare systems and societies. Objectives: The objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive estimate of the economic burden of childhood atopic dermatitis in a Singaporean sample and to investigate associated factors. Methods: This cross-sectional cost-of-illness study applied a societal perspective. Data was collected between December 2016 and December 2017 in Singapore. Caregivers to children below 16 years of age with a physician-confirmed diagnosis of atopic dermatitis were recruited and sociodemographics, clinical characteristics, health service utilization data and time spent on caregiving were collected from all eligible participants. Results: This cross-sectional cost-of-illness study applied a societal perspective. Data was collected between December 2016 and December 2017 in Singapore. Caregivers to children below 16 years of age with a physician-confirmed diagnosis of atopic dermatitis were recruited and sociodemographics, clinical characteristics, health service utilization data and time spent on caregiving were collected from all eligible participants. Conclusions: Childhood atopic dermatitis imposes substantial costs with a large proportion arising from informal caregiving and out-of-pocket expenses. The costs related to atopic dermatitis are also strongly related to disease severity. This information is important for policy makers and other health planners when considering how to better support affected families.