Costs of Pregnancy Complications from Bacterial Vaginosis
Author Information
Author(s): MerriKay A. Oleen-Burkey, Sharon L. Hillier
Primary Institution: Worldwide Health Care Economic and Policy Research, The Upjohn Company
Hypothesis
This study aims to estimate the annual direct costs of complications associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV) in pregnant women in the United States.
Conclusion
If the current frequency of BV among pregnant women persists, the projected annual costs will reach $1.4 billion by the year 2000.
Supporting Evidence
- The direct costs of BV-related complications were estimated at nearly $1 billion in 1993.
- Over 40% of the total cost was associated with preterm delivery and intensive care of low birth weight infants.
- Reducing the economic burden of BV will require effective screening and treatment regimens.
- Assuming a constant incidence rate, costs are projected to reach $1.4 billion by 2000.
- Screening and treating BV could potentially save $150 million annually.
Takeaway
Bacterial vaginosis can lead to serious pregnancy complications, costing nearly $1 billion a year in the U.S., and treating it could save a lot of money.
Methodology
An economic model was developed using published literature and hospital utilization data to estimate costs associated with BV-related complications.
Potential Biases
The use of hospital charge data may introduce bias, as charges can include costs unrelated to patient care.
Limitations
The study relies on charge data rather than actual costs, which may inflate estimates, and does not account for psychosocial effects.
Participant Demographics
The study estimates that 15-20% of pregnant women have BV, with a focus on the U.S. population in 1993.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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