New insights into the burden and costs of multiple sclerosis in Europe: Results for Sweden

Abstract

Background: To assess the value of management strategies in multiple sclerosis (MS), outcome data have to be combined with cost data. This requires that cost data be regularly updated. Objective and methods: This study is part of a cross-sectional retrospective study in 16 countries collecting current data on resource consumption, work capacity and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Descriptive analyses are presented by level of severity; costs are estimated in the societal perspective, in 2015 SEK. Results: A total of 1864 patients (mean age 56 years) participated in Sweden; 74% were below retirement age, and of these, 55% were employed. MS was reported to affect productivity at work in 78% of patients. Overall, 94% and 72% of patients felt that fatigue and cognition were a problem, respectively. The mean utility and costs were 0.757 and 244,000SEK at Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) 0–3, 0.563 and 384,000SEK at EDSS 4–6.5 and 0.202 and 888,000SEK at EDSS 7–9, respectively. The average cost of a relapse was 36,900SEK. Conclusion: This study illustrates the burden of MS on Swedish patients and provides current data that are important for the development of health policies.