Cost-Effectiveness of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening
Author Information
Author(s): Ehlers Lars, Sørensen Jan, Jensen Lotte Groth, Bech Merete, Kjølby Mette
Primary Institution: Institute of Public Health, Aarhus University, Denmark
Hypothesis
Is population screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm cost-effective?
Conclusion
Most existing health economic evaluations of AAA screening have employed optimistic assumptions, and further analyses are recommended.
Supporting Evidence
- Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm is responsible for 1-2% of all male deaths over the age of 65.
- Screening programs have shown a reduction in AAA-related mortality.
- Most studies included only short-term costs, ignoring long-term implications.
Takeaway
This study looked at whether screening older men for a dangerous condition called abdominal aortic aneurysm is worth the money spent. It found that many studies might be too positive about the benefits.
Methodology
A systematic review of published cost-effectiveness analyses of screening elderly men for AAA was conducted.
Potential Biases
Many studies employed optimistic assumptions about the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of AAA screening.
Limitations
Most studies only considered short-term costs and did not account for long-term health outcomes or costs.
Participant Demographics
Elderly males, typically aged 65 and older.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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