Evaluating the Economic Burden of Acute Myeloid Leukemia in Canada

INTRODUCTION: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) represents a significant burden for patients and their families, and to the healthcare system. This study estimated the total cost of illness associated with newly diagnosed AML patients in Canada. METHODS: The economic burden of AML was estimated using an incidence-based model, analyzing different types of AML cases in Canada. Direct and indirect costs were calculated using scientific literature and Canadian clinical experts' inputs. Patients were categorized depending on their eligibility for intensive chemotherapy (fit and unfit patients) as well as according to age and cytogenetic markers. RESULTS: The total average cost of AML per patient is estimated to be CAD 178,073 with a cost of CAD 210,983 and CAD 145,163 for fit and unfit patients, respectively. The costs related to treatment represent half of the total average cost (52%), followed by hematopoietic stem cell transplant (23%), best supportive care (16%), productivity loss (6%), and wastage (4%). CONCLUSION: For patients with AML, the costs associated with fit patients are higher than unfit patients. Hospitalization and best supportive care costs are key cost drivers for the total costs of fit and unfit patients, respectively. This study highlights that AML is associated with a significant economic burden in Canada.