THE DEMOGRAPHICS AND ECONOMICS OF CHRONIC DISEASE

Title- The Demographics and Economics of Chronic Disease

[Mavis Brown]

[Charleston Campus]

Table of contents The Demographics and Economics of Chronic Disease

Chapter 1

Introduction

Chronic diseases account for the greatest share of early death and disability worldwide. Over the next few decades this burden is projected to rise particularly fast in the developing world. The lack of research on the economic implications of chronic disease contrasts with the available knowledge on the sheer epidemiological burden of the problem. This paper assesses and evaluates the current state of knowledge, with a primary focus on low- and middle-income countries, and a secondary focus on high-income countries (where information on the former is lacking). Very few such attempts have been undertaken, especially with an interest in developing countries. Thus a critical review of the available evidence is a necessary first step in exploring the case for governments and donors to invest in chronic disease prevention and in clarifying areas in which further research is required.

Chronic diseases have traditionally been considered 'diseases of affluence' that affect only the elderly and wealthy. While the observed patterns defy over-simplified conclusions, the data presented in this report strongly suggest that chronic diseases and related risk factors impose a significant burden on both the poor - across countries and within countries - and those of working age. To the extent that the traditional view has prevailed among economists, it may be partly responsible for the lack of research into the economic implications and public-policy relevance of chronic disease.

Context of the Problem

The research distinguishes Demographics And Economics Of Chronic Disease on the basis of cost-of-illness', microeconomic and macroeconomic data. Taken together, there exists evidence enough to conclude that there are important economic consequences of chronic disease - important for the individual and his/her family, but also potentially important for the economy at large. Chronic diseases and related risk factors have an impact upon consumption and saving decisions, labour-market performance, and human-capital accumulation. There is also recent evidence that chronic diseases have significantly detracted from economic growth in high-income countries. To the extent that this evidence points to future impacts in developing countries, it may function as a reminder to policymakers to act now to stem the growing burden of disease not solely as a use in itself but in addition as a means to promote economic development.

Statement of the Problem

The economic impact of chronic illness goes far beyond the expense of treating disease. It takes an even greater toll on economic productivity in the form of extra sick days, reduced performance by ill workers and other losses not directly related to medical care.

Main Research Question and Sub-questions

What are the Demographics And Economics Of Chronic Disease?

What are the economic consequences of chronic disease and related risk factors?

Are there market failures that justify public-policy intervention to prevent chronic disease?

Limitations

We have created so much disease in this country, and we have based our economy on it to such a degree that, frankly, we cannot untangle this situation without causing economic ...