Estimating the economic burden of depressive and anxiety disoreders: case study of East Azarbaijan province

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction and purpose: Depression and anxiety disorders are among the leading causes of disability and reduced quality of life for sufferers. Therefore, the current study aims to estimate the economic burden of major depressive disorders, panic, and generalized anxiety disorders in East Azarbaijan province in 1401. Methods and Materials: A retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted with a one-year time horizon (year 1401) and a social perspective. Data was collected for 5 months for outpatients and 9 months for inpatients. Using the researcher's checklist, the financial statement was checked in the accounting system of Razi Tabriz and Imam Khomeini hospitals in Bonab, mental health centers, and private clinics in Tabriz city. SPSS 27 and EXCEL 2021 software were used for cost analysis. Results: 343 patients (145 outpatients and 198 inpatients) were included in the study. 74.8% of the outpatient group were women and 58.1% of the inpatient group were men. The total economic burden was estimated to be 362.3 million dollars equal to purchasing power. $1048.69 was obtained per patient. 47.46% of the total cost was related to indirect cost (early death 3.99% and lost productivity of outpatients and inpatients 43.48%). According to the generalized linear model, the marital status of outpatients has a significant relationship with the logarithm of costs. Conclusion: Considering the greater share of the outpatient group in direct and indirect costs, it is very important to determine the priority when adopting health policies. A significant relationship between marital status and total cost can be useful in identifying groups that are more sensitive to these disorders. Keywords: economic burden, depressive disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, direct cost, indirect cost