Open AccessThe economic cost of musculoskeletal disorders in Canada
Author(s) -
Coyte Peter C.,
Asche Carl V.,
Croxford Ruth,
Chan Ben
Publication year - 1998
Publication title -
arthritis & rheumatism
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1529-0131
pISSN - 0004-3591
DOI - 10.1002/art.1790110503
Subject(s) - indirect costs , medicine , total cost , musculoskeletal disorder , economic cost , productivity , cost analysis , environmental health , physical therapy , human factors and ergonomics , poison control , business , operations research , accounting , neoclassical economics , economics , engineering , macroeconomics
Abstract Objective . This study estimated the total cost of musculoskeletal disorders for Canadians in 1994 and assessed the sensitivity of these cost estimates to variations in the definition of musculoskeletal disorders. Methods . Disease‐related costs, from a societal perspective, were measured using a prevalencebased analysis. First, direct treatment costs, including expenditures on hospitals and other institutions, physicians and other health professionals, drugs, research, and other items were assessed. Second, indirect costs associated with lost (or foregone) productivity due to disability and premature mortality were evaluated using the human capital approach. Results . The total cost of musculoskeletal disorders in Canada was $25.6 billion (in 1994 Canadian dollars, $1.00 CDN ≈ $0.75 US) or 3.4% of the gross domestic product. Direct and indirect costs were estimated at $7.5 billion and $18.1 billion, respectively. Lower and upper bound estimates of the total cost of musculoskeletal disorders, derived from the sensitivity analysis, were $19.9 billion and $30.8 billion, respectively. Wide variations were reported in the total cost of various musculoskeletal disorder subcategories, with the highest costs reported for injuries ($10.7 billion), back and spine disorders ($8.1 billion), and arthritis and rheumatism ($5.9 billion). Conclusions . The economic cost of musculoskeletal disorders was substantial and was sensitive to the definition of musculoskeletal disorders and other underlying assumptions. The hallmark of this study was the variation between subcategories in their cost, pattern of health resource use, and sequelae. The cost estimates may provide guidance in setting priorities for research and prevention activities.