Economic Impact of Childhood Ocular Morbidity in Bangladesh
This study assessed the direct and indirect costs associated with childhood eye diseases in Bangladesh. Key Findings:
- Caregivers spent significant amounts on eye care, with costs ranging from 3,740 BDT at government hospitals to 7,300 BDT at private hospitals
- Treatment costs were highest for squint (65,000 BDT) and cataracts (50,000 BDT)
- High out-of-pocket costs were linked to low awareness and lack of trust in local facilities.
The study highlighted significant financial impacts on families and identified a high rate of catastrophic health expenditure among caregivers.
Reference: Hussain, A. H. M. Enayet, et al. “The Economic Burden of Childhood Ocular Morbidity in Bangladesh.” Advances in Therapy 41.8 (2024): 3820–3831