Intersectoral costs of pneumococcal diseases: a systematic review of partial economic evaluation studies.

Introduction: This systematic review explores the intersectoral costs associated with pneumococcal diseases across different age groups and related impacts on societal costs.

Methods: Four databases were searched (1990-2023) for partial economic evaluation studies of pneumococcal diseases from a societal perspective. The identified intersectoral costs were presented narratively and in tabular form. Studies were appraised on quality, and the PRISMA guidelines were followed.

Results: Twenty-four studies were included with wide variation in types of analysis. Intersectoral costs were captured in five sectors: patient/family, paid labor, opportunity costs, education, and public/social services. Paid labor was the main sector considered in the included studies, followed by patient/family. Cost bearers varied according to patients' age group. Mean annual costs per child varied from $182 to $82,217 healthcare costs, $240 to $846 patient/family costs and $654 to $25,721 productivity cost. In adults, mean annual costs of $168 to $43,676 healthcare costs, and $23 to $33,149 productivity costs were reported.

Conclusions: Intersectoral costs associated with pneumococcal diseases vary widely and appear in several sectors. More cost-of-illness studies are needed with wider perspectives, particularly in developing countries, to understand true economic costs of pneumococcal diseases and support the endeavor of informing a decision on treatment/preventive strategies.

Registration: PROSPERO (CRD42023417042).