Literature Review on the Economic Impact of Maternal Fetal Infections
Author(s)
Elena M. Calosci, Jr., MEd, PharmD1, Filippo Rumi, MA, MSc1, Eugenio Di Brino, MSc1, Michele Basile, Sr., MSc2, Agostino Fortunato, MSc1.
1Altems Advisory, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy, 2Altems Advisory, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.
1Altems Advisory, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy, 2Altems Advisory, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.
OBJECTIVES: This study aims to analyze the literature on maternal-fetal infections to highlight their clinical and economic impact on the National Health System. Given that many TORCH-related complications are preventable, the study emphasizes the need for greater awareness and education for women—from preconception to early postnatal care—to reduce adverse outcomes and long-term effects on children.
METHODS: Three systematic reviews were conducted, supported by grey literature and manual searches, using the PICO framework. The population (pregnant women/newborns with TORCH infections) and the outcome (economic impact) remained constant, while interventions focused on: a general overview, screening and prevention, and clinical guidelines.
RESULTS: Maternal-fetal infections, especially congenital CMV, place a heavy clinical and economic burden on healthcare systems. Targeted screening misses many asymptomatic cases, making universal screening a potentially cost-effective option despite higher initial costs. Prevention during pregnancy is limited, and prenatal screening remains rare due to uncertain treatment benefits. Evidence supports targeted prenatal screening, but more research is needed. A combined strategy of universal screening, education, professional training, and monitoring is key to improving outcomes and optimizing resources.
CONCLUSIONS: Maternal-fetal infections, particularly those caused by congenital CMV, present a significant clinical and economic burden for healthcare systems. Despite current efforts, targeted neonatal screening fails to identify many asymptomatic cases, underscoring the need for universal screening strategies. Evidence suggests that timely treatment and integrated prevention policies, including hygiene education and targeted prenatal screening, can substantially improve outcomes. To enhance effectiveness, continuous health professional training, public awareness campaigns, and robust monitoring systems are essential. Future research should focus on large-scale trials to validate the cost-effectiveness and impact of these interventions.
METHODS: Three systematic reviews were conducted, supported by grey literature and manual searches, using the PICO framework. The population (pregnant women/newborns with TORCH infections) and the outcome (economic impact) remained constant, while interventions focused on: a general overview, screening and prevention, and clinical guidelines.
RESULTS: Maternal-fetal infections, especially congenital CMV, place a heavy clinical and economic burden on healthcare systems. Targeted screening misses many asymptomatic cases, making universal screening a potentially cost-effective option despite higher initial costs. Prevention during pregnancy is limited, and prenatal screening remains rare due to uncertain treatment benefits. Evidence supports targeted prenatal screening, but more research is needed. A combined strategy of universal screening, education, professional training, and monitoring is key to improving outcomes and optimizing resources.
CONCLUSIONS: Maternal-fetal infections, particularly those caused by congenital CMV, present a significant clinical and economic burden for healthcare systems. Despite current efforts, targeted neonatal screening fails to identify many asymptomatic cases, underscoring the need for universal screening strategies. Evidence suggests that timely treatment and integrated prevention policies, including hygiene education and targeted prenatal screening, can substantially improve outcomes. To enhance effectiveness, continuous health professional training, public awareness campaigns, and robust monitoring systems are essential. Future research should focus on large-scale trials to validate the cost-effectiveness and impact of these interventions.
Conference/Value in Health Info
2025-11, ISPOR Europe 2025, Glasgow, Scotland
Value in Health, Volume 28, Issue S2
Code
EPH158
Topic
Epidemiology & Public Health, Real World Data & Information Systems, Study Approaches
Topic Subcategory
Public Health
Disease
Reproductive & Sexual Health