COPD in the Working Age Population: The Economic Impact on Both Patients and Government

Objectives: To explore the full economic impact, on both patients and government, as a result of COPD in the working age population. Methods: The economic impact of COPD due to medical treatment, impaired productivity and early retirement was assessed in a cross sectional cost analysis of the Dutch COPD population aged 45-64 years. The costing year was 2009 and input parameters were derived from both national data sources and the international COPD uncovered survey. Results: While direct medical costs for COPD patients of working age were relatively low ((sic)91 million), the amount of lost productivity (income) due to early retirement ((sic)223 million) exceeded over two times their medical costs. In addition, costs for the government were considerable because of lost tax revenues ((sic)77 million) and COPD related disability pensions paid ((sic)180 million). Apart from lost productivity due to early retirement, costs due to impaired productivity for working COPD patients were (sic)63 million. Conclusions: The costs of COPD for both patients of working age as for the government were considerable, making this population a priority for prevention and intervention programs of healthcare providers, employers and government.