The cost of lost productivity due to premature mortality associated with COVID-19: a Pan-European study

Background Economic cost estimates have the potential to provide a valuable alternative perspective on the COVID-19 burden. We estimate the premature mortality productivity costs associated with COVID-19 across Europe. Methods We calculated excess deaths between the date the cumulative total of COVID-19 deaths reached 10 in a country to 15th May 2020 for nine countries (Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, The Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland). Gender- and age-specific excess deaths and Years of Potential Productive Life Lost (YPPLL) between 30 and 74 years were calculated and converted into premature mortality productivity costs euro2020 for paid and unpaid work using the Human Capital and the Proxy Good Approaches. Costs were discounted at 3.5%. Results Total estimated excess deaths across the nine countries were 18,614 (77% in men) and YPPLL were 134,190 (77% male). Total paid premature mortality costs were euro1.07 billion (87% male) with Spain (euro0.35 billion, 33.0% of total), Italy (euro0.22 billion; 20.6%) and The Netherlands (euro0.19 billion; 17.5%) ranking highest. Total paid and unpaid premature mortality costs were euro2.89 billion (77% male). Premature mortality costs per death ranged between euro40,382 (France) and euro350,325 (Switzerland). Spain experienced the highest premature mortality cost as a proportion of Gross Domestic Product (0.11%). Conclusion Even in the initial period of the pandemic in Europe, COVID-19-related premature mortality costs were significant across Europe. We provide policy makers and researchers with a valuable alternative perspective on the burden of the virus and highlight potential economic savings that may be accrued by applying timely public health measures.

Automated summary

During the initial period of the pandemic in Europe, significant premature mortality costs related to COVID-19 were observed, with a total of 18,614 excess deaths and 134,190 Years of Potential Productive Life Lost. Spain, Italy, and The Netherlands had the highest premature mortality costs, with Spain also experiencing the highest cost as a proportion of Gross Domestic Product. The study provides policy makers and researchers with valuable insights into the economic burden of the virus and emphasizes the potential economic savings from timely public health measures.