Quantifying the economic impact of premature mortality from cirrhosis in Spain.

Abstract

Objectives: Excessive alcohol consumption is a major contributor to illness and mortality on a global scale. Per-capita alcohol consumption rose from 5.5 litres in 2005 to 6.4 litres in 2016 and is projected to reach 7.6 litres by 2030. In 2019, alcohol was associated with roughly a quarter of all cirrhosis-related deaths worldwide. The aim of this study is to assess the economic impact of premature mortality due to cirrhosis in Spain.

Methods: To estimate the economic impact of premature mortality due to cirrhosis, we utilized the human capital method. This method involved collecting data on mortality rates, average salaries, and unemployment rates. Our objective was to quantify the financial implications of cirrhosis-related deaths, offering valuable insights for policymakers and healthcare professionals.

Results: In 2022, 45% of cirrhosis deaths occurred among individuals of working age. This resulted in the loss of 20,190 years of potential life lost (YPLL), contributing to productivity losses totalling €20.4 billion over a decade. These statistics highlight the significant economic and societal burdens associated with cirrhosis mortality.

Conclusions: Over the past two decades, there has been a global increase in alcohol consumption, a trend expected to persist and possibly escalate through 2030. As a direct consequence, projections indicate a corresponding increase in cirrhosis-related deaths over the coming decade. This anticipated rise underscores the ongoing public health challenge posed by alcohol-related liver diseases worldwide.