Cost–benefit analysis of a projected national human papilloma virus vaccination programme in Lebanon

Abstract

Background: The adoption of a population-based human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccination programme is debated in Lebanon on epidemiological, sociocultural, logistical and economic grounds. Aims: This cost–benefit analysis contributes to generating quantitative evidence necessary for a decision regarding costs through locally available data. Methods: The 2 sides of the cost–benefit analysis equation are: estimation of the cost of HPV vaccination campaigns targeting 11 year-old girls, using the cheapest vaccine in 2016 and estimation of the management cost for treatment of a yearly average case-load for cervical cancer. Results: A Cervarix® only campaign would cost US$ 5 407 790 to vaccinate 38 083 11-year-old girls. The estimated cost of managing a mean annual mixed case-load of 100 incident cervical cancer cases would cost US$ 1 591 336. The nearest break-even point may occur 5 years after this current analysis. Conclusion: This cost–benefit analysis using limited available data indicates that massive HPV vaccination would not be cost–beneficial under the circumstances existing in 2016. Nevertheless, some indications point to the need for a re-as-sessment around 2020. This finding will inform public health decision-makers in Lebanon and similar neighbouring countries.