The hidden burden of atopic dermatitis in central and Eastern European countries

BackgroundAtopic dermatitis (AD) imposes a hidden burden through its negative effects on quality of life and productivity. We aim to estimate this hidden burden in adults and adolescents in Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries.MethodsWe created a burden of disease model to quantify AD's hidden burden. Humanistic burden was calculated by estimating the monetary value of quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) lost, using prevalence data from the Global Burden of Disease study and gross domestic product (GDP) per capita for each country. Indirect economic burden was estimated based on productivity loss from absenteeism and presenteeism, adjusted for labor force participation and unemployment rates. Total hidden burden was determined by combining productivity losses and QALYs lost.ResultsQALY loss due to AD ranged from 1,832 to 58,596 annually in CEE countries, equating to 38 million to approximately 1 billion Euros per country. Productivity losses ranged from 3.6 to 148.9 million Euros annually. The total hidden burden of AD represents 0.11% to 0.43% of the GDP.ConclusionsOur estimates reflect significant differences in population size, prevalence, and economic strength among CEE countries. Adjusting findings to country-specific GDP provided insights into AD's true hidden burden, offering valuable information for decision-making. Atopic dermatitis (AD), commonly known as eczema, is a widespread skin condition causing itchiness and discomfort. While it is well known that treating eczema costs money and affects patients' health, there is more to its impact than meets the eye. Our study closely examined eczema's 'hidden' effects in Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries, such as its impact on work ability and life enjoyment.We found that eczema's impact is not just about the direct costs of treatment. It also includes how the condition leads to lost workdays and reduced productivity, and more importantly, how it lowers the quality of life for those who have it. This part of eczema's impact, which is not always easy to see or measure, can be just as significant.Our research is important because it shows that when health officials and policymakers think about how to deal with eczema, they need to consider these hidden effects too. Different countries in Central and Eastern Europe experience these effects in varying degrees. By understanding this, healthcare systems can make better decisions about where to put their healthcare resources. For example, they might decide to invest more in treatments or support that can improve the quality of life for people with eczema.In summary, our study highlights the need to look at the full picture of eczema's impact. This includes not only the costs of treatment but also how it affects people's lives in ways that are not always immediately obvious.