OBJECTIVES: This study aims to estimate the burden and costs associated with Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (wAMD) and Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) in Portugal in 2018. The objective is to provide a clear assessment of the impact of these ophthalmological diseases on population health and the financial implications for the healthcare system and society as a whole.

METHODS: The burden of disease was quantified using disability-adjusted life years (DALY). Mortality was not attributed to wAMD and DME, and the burden was solely based on the resulting disabilities. Costs of AMD and DME were estimated using multiple data sources, including Hospital Morbidity Database (DRG), official Portuguese Statistics on population and wages, epidemiological information from the literature, and expert opinions.

RESULTS: The estimated prevalence of wAMD and DME was 18,068 and 44,109 cases, respectively. The burden of disease attributed to wAMD was 954 DALYs and 1,906 DALYs for DME. DALYs due to wAMD are projected to increase 36.6% over the next 20 years. During the same period, DME DALYs are expected to rise 10.1%.

The direct annual costs associated with wAMD and DME in 2018 were estimated at €30.79million and €28.76million, respectively. While productivity costs related to wAMD were assumed to be negligible, the estimated productivity costs for DME amounted to €39million, surpassing the direct costs. Combining productivity losses and direct costs for DME yields a social cost of €67.8million.

CONCLUSIONS: Considering the substantial number of affected individuals, AMD and DME in Portugal pose a considerable disease burden on the population and generate significant direct costs to the healthcare system. The burden and costs are anticipated to rise in the future due to demographic changes associated with an aging population. This study provides valuable insight into the consequences of AMD and DME, emphasizing the need to prioritize and define healthcare policies based on these findings.