The Economic Burden of Asthma in India: Impact on the Indian Economy and the World

 

The Economic Burden of Asthma in India: Impact on the Indian Economy and the World

Introduction:

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects millions of people worldwide, and India is no exception. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), asthma is a significant public health concern, affecting an estimated 237.8 million people globally. The economic burden of asthma is also substantial, including direct healthcare costs, indirect costs such as lost productivity, and reduced quality of life. This research article aims to explore the impact of asthma on the Indian economy in relation to the world.

Background:

Asthma is a chronic disease characterized by inflammation of the airways, resulting in difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness. It is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and it is estimated that asthma will affect 100 million people in India by 2025. The prevalence of asthma in India has been on the rise over the years, with an estimated 15-20 million asthma patients in the country. The economic burden of asthma is also significant, with direct and indirect costs associated with managing the disease.

Direct Costs:

The direct costs of asthma include medical expenses, such as doctor visits, medication, hospitalization, and other medical procedures. According to a study by the National Institute of Health and Family Welfare, the average cost of treating asthma in India is INR 18,656 per year per patient, which can be a significant burden for low-income households. The study also found that households with asthma patients spent 12.39% of their income on healthcare, which is a significant financial burden.

Indirect Costs:

The indirect costs of asthma are related to lost productivity due to the disease, including absenteeism from work or school, reduced productivity at work, and reduced quality of life. According to a study by the World Bank, asthma is estimated to cause a loss of 1.06% of GDP in India due to lost productivity, equivalent to around INR 1.5 trillion per year. This loss of productivity affects not only the individual but also the economy as a whole.