Economic consequences of multiple sclerosis for Canadians

Objectives - To estimate the total costs of multiple sclerosis (MS) for all Canadians in 1994. Methods - Prevalence-based study estimating disease-related societal costs for Canadians with MS in 1994. The human capital approach was used to estimate the value of lost productivity due to illness. Two components were revealed: first, direct costs, in terms of expenditures on hospital care, other institutions, physician services, other health professionals, drugs, and other expenditures; and second, indirect costs, in terms of lost productivity due to premature mortality and disability, Results - The total costs of MS for Canadians were $502.3 million in 1994, with direct and indirect cost components at $188.6 million and $313.7 million, respectively, Conclusions - This study highlights the scope and magnitude of the economic consequences of MS for Canadians. The costs calculated may be used to provide guidance in the setting of national priorities for research and prevention activities.