Lifetime Direct Medical Costs to Treat Type 2 Diabetes

The cost of treating a type 2 diabetes patient throughout their lifetime is estimated to be $85,500….

The purpose of this study was to determine what the cost savings would be when preventing or delaying the onset of type 2 diabetes and also to see how much of a financial impact new cases of type 2 diabetes and its associated complications have in the long run.

The authors used a simulation model to analyze the costs of treating type 2 diabetes and its complications in patients (recently diagnosed) over their lifetime. This method differs from previous studies which looked at the cost of treating type 2 diabetes per year.

Several findings were reported from the model. Results showed that it costs less for men aged 25-44 to treat their type 2 diabetes over their lifetime ($124,700) than it does for women ($130,800). Furthermore, it was found that the earlier diabetes is diagnosed, the higher the "lifetime costs" were for treating it. The model revealed that 53% of these costs come from managing complications associated with diabetes, while the other 57% are costs related to blood vessel damage.

The study accounted for the direct costs associated with treating diabetes, such as cost of doctor visits, medication and testing supplies, and for treating complications like kidney and heart disease, retinopathy, amputations, and etc.

In conclusion, the researchers of the study believe the best way to reduce these healthcare costs associated with type 2 diabetes is by taking the necessary measures to prevent the chronic disease or at least delay its onset.

Zhuo X, Zhang P, Hoerger TJ. Lifetime direct medical costs of treating type 2 diabetes and diabetic complications. American Journal of Preventive Medicine. 2013; 45(3): 253-261.