The cost of dementia in Brazil

Abstract

Objective: Given the increasing number of people with dementia in Brazil, health and social systems must urgently plan strategies to meet the needs of this population and their families. Therefore, research on dementia costs is essential. This study estimated direct and indirect dementia-related costs in Brazil. Methods: We used a cost-of-illness methodology to estimate dementia-related costs, in addition to household interview data from the National Report on Dementia in Brazil (ReNaDe) and public national databases to collect data on health service use and costs. Both a social and a health system perspective were used. Results: The monthly cost of dementia per patient increases with advancing stages of the syndrome: USD 843.04 in the initial stage, USD 1,317.81 in the intermediate stage, and USD 1,576.15 in the advanced stage. Indirect costs represent ≽ 73% of total expenses. The country’s total expenses are the highest during the intermediate stage of dementia. Conclusion: Family caregivers shoulder at least 73% of the health-related costs of dementia in Brazil, highlighting the need for better support strategies for people with dementia and their families.