Cost-effectiveness of Breast Cancer Prevention in Japan
Author Information
Author(s): Kondo M, Hoshi S-L, Toi M
Primary Institution: University of Tsukuba
Hypothesis
This study aims to evaluate cost-effectiveness of tamoxifen and raloxifene for breast cancer prevention among high-risk women in Japan.
Conclusion
The study suggests that chemoprevention targeting extremely high-risk women in Japan can be justified as an efficient use of healthcare resources.
Supporting Evidence
- Tamoxifen and raloxifene are found to be cost-effective for women with a 5-year predicted breast cancer risk of ≥5.01%.
- Prophylaxis with tamoxifen results in cost savings among extremely high-risk women starting at younger ages.
- Raloxifene is suggested to be a more costly but effective alternative to tamoxifen for postmenopausal women.
Takeaway
This study looks at how much it costs to prevent breast cancer in women who are at high risk, showing that using certain medications can save money and lives.
Methodology
A cost-effectiveness analysis using a Markov model with eight health states was conducted.
Potential Biases
The study may be influenced by the lack of Japanese-specific utility weights and risk prediction models.
Limitations
The model relies on clinical evidence from the US, which may not fully apply to Japanese women due to differences in demographics and healthcare systems.
Participant Demographics
High-risk women in Japan, including those with a history of atypical hyperplasia or lobular carcinoma in situ.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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