An assessment of direct and indirect costs of dementia in Brazil

BACKGROUND To analyze costs associated with dementia based on a cross-sectional study in the Brazilian health system. METHODS Direct and indirect costs were estimated by conducting comprehensive interviews on the use of resources in a sample of 156 patients with dementia treated at an outpatient memory clinic of a tertiary hospital. A regression model was used to determine the main determinants of costs associated with dementia. RESULTS Global costs of dementia were US$1,012.35; US$1,683.18 and US$1,372.30 per patient/month for mild, moderate and severe stages, respectively. Indirect costs ranged from US$536.62 to US$545.17 according to severity. Dementia costs were influenced by medication, FAST score, and educational level of caregiver. DISCUSSION The study represents an original contribution toward establishing direct and indirect costs of dementia in Brazil. Results indicate significant economic impacts, including projection of annual costs of US$16,548.24 per patient.