Analysis of the Direct Medical Costs of Colorectal Cancer in Antigua and Barbuda: A Prevalence-Based Cost-of-Illness Study

Colorectal cancer burden is a threat to health systems in several countries. As the cost of diagnosing, treating, and managing this cancer is unknown in Antigua and Barbuda, this study aimed to estimate its direct medical cost in this country. We used the prevalence-based cost-of-illness methodology to study data on patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer between 2017 and 2021. Data record abstraction was carried out to determine the five-year prevalence, and a top-down and bottom-up approach was employed to estimate the direct medical costs for colorectal cancer care components. All costs were computed at 2021 price levels and are reported in United States dollars. The total annual direct medical costs for colorectal cancer were estimated at USD 1.14 million (ranging between USD 0.85 million and USD 1.42 million). Major cost drivers were treatment (USD 613,650.01) and post-treatment side-effects care (USD 402,234.50). The overall estimated direct medical unit costs were USD 139,295.58, with the main drivers being surgery (USD 43,467.10), other complications of treatment (USD 28,469.21), and immunotherapy (USD 19,200.00). This study provides evidence of the economic burden of colorectal cancer in Antigua and Barbuda. The estimates of annual direct medical costs are substantial. Our findings could help in the development of health policy and aid in resource allocation related to local colorectal cancer management.