The Economic Burden of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Greece

Abstract

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide, imposing a substantial socioeconomic burden on societies and patients due to the long-term management required. Objective: To assess the economic burden of COPD in Greece and its potential determinants. Methods: A population-based, random-digit dialled, telephone nationwide survey was conducted to recruit patients with COPD in Greece (N = 351). A structured questionnaire was used to collect data. The total annual cost per patient from a societal perspective was calculated. Results: The mean (95% CI) annual total cost per patient for the management of COPD from a societal perspective was €2150 (€1879–€2443). The total annual cost was mainly driven by the medication cost (36.1%), followed by the cost of hospitalizations (26.7%) and long-term oxygen therapy (13.8%). Multiple generalized linear model revealed that age, COPD Assessment Test (CAT) score and exacerbations were independently associated with the total annual cost. Conclusion: Investment in interventions aiming at delaying progression of disease, preventing acute exacerbations, and managing chronic symptoms are required to reduce the overall economic burden of COPD in Greece.