Cost Utility of Neonatal Screening Program for Phenylketonuria in Shiraz University of Medical Sciences

Congenital anomalies are of main reasons of neonatal mortalities. Although most of the symptoms can be detected immediately after birth، some are mild enough to be ignored. Failure to diagnose of the disease may result in irreversible physical and mental problems in neonates. In most of the countries، there are screening programs for detection of the Phenylketonuria. This study aimed to assess cost- effectiveness of neonatal screening program for Phenylketonuria in Fars province. Implementation costs of the screening program and the cost of the disease management were calculated and compared using Decision Tree model. The health related quality of life of the two mentioned groups and incremental cost-effectiveness were also estimated. Results showed that the Phenylketonuria screening cost was about 34727047 Rials for every individual. The screening program was cost-effective. The Phenylketonuria screening program was beneficial for both patients and society. It increased quality of life of the patients and might have long-term financial gain for the society.