The Economic Burden of Celiac Disease: A Comprehensive Analysis of Direct and Indirect Costs Associated with the Diagnosis and Management of Celiac Disease
Abstract
Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune condition where gluten ingestion prompts an immune response, damaging the small intestine and leading to diverse health complications. Effective management of CD necessitates a strict gluten-free diet (GFD). This paper reviews the economic implications of living with CD, drawing on peer-reviewed research from PubMed and Google Scholar databases. The analysis reveals significant direct and indirect costs that contribute to the economic burden faced by individuals with CD. Direct costs stem from medical consultations, diagnostic testing, and treatment of CD and its comorbidities, such as thyroid dysfunction and osteoporosis. Indirect costs arise from the higher price of GFD products, productivity loss due to work absences, and additional expenses associated with comorbid conditions. The review illustrates that the financial impact extends beyond the individual, affecting family budgets and imposing a differential burden across age groups and insurance statuses. Additionally, the paper highlights the need for increased awareness and education about CD to facilitate earlier diagnosis, which can significantly reduce the long-term economic burden and improve health outcomes for patients. Recognition of these economic pressures is vital for the development of policies aimed at reducing the cost of GFD products and enhancing insurance coverage for CD management. Moreover, the findings underscore the necessity for broader societal measures, such as improving food label regulations and increasing the availability of gluten-free options, to lessen the financial strain on affected individuals. Thus, comprehensive approaches to address both direct and indirect costs are essential to support those living with CD.
Faculty Sponsors
Dr. Mayur S. Parmar
Project Type
Event
Location
Alvin Sherman Library
Start Date
4-3-2024 12:30 PM
End Date
4-4-2024 1:30 PM
The Economic Burden of Celiac Disease: A Comprehensive Analysis of Direct and Indirect Costs Associated with the Diagnosis and Management of Celiac Disease
Alvin Sherman Library
Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune condition where gluten ingestion prompts an immune response, damaging the small intestine and leading to diverse health complications. Effective management of CD necessitates a strict gluten-free diet (GFD). This paper reviews the economic implications of living with CD, drawing on peer-reviewed research from PubMed and Google Scholar databases. The analysis reveals significant direct and indirect costs that contribute to the economic burden faced by individuals with CD. Direct costs stem from medical consultations, diagnostic testing, and treatment of CD and its comorbidities, such as thyroid dysfunction and osteoporosis. Indirect costs arise from the higher price of GFD products, productivity loss due to work absences, and additional expenses associated with comorbid conditions. The review illustrates that the financial impact extends beyond the individual, affecting family budgets and imposing a differential burden across age groups and insurance statuses. Additionally, the paper highlights the need for increased awareness and education about CD to facilitate earlier diagnosis, which can significantly reduce the long-term economic burden and improve health outcomes for patients. Recognition of these economic pressures is vital for the development of policies aimed at reducing the cost of GFD products and enhancing insurance coverage for CD management. Moreover, the findings underscore the necessity for broader societal measures, such as improving food label regulations and increasing the availability of gluten-free options, to lessen the financial strain on affected individuals. Thus, comprehensive approaches to address both direct and indirect costs are essential to support those living with CD.
