A Scoping Review of the Economic Burden of Non-Cancerous Genitourinary Conditions

Abstract

Objective: To provide a scoping review of the economic burden of non-cancerous genitourinary conditions (NCGUC).

Methods: A scoping review of the economic costs associated with NCGUC was conducted for literature published between 1990-2020. The articles were screened and relevant articles were selected for review. These articles were abstracted with information pertaining to the costs surrounding NCGUC. A descriptive analysis of the data was conducted.

Results: We found 3,298 articles in our scoping review. Of these, we found 39 relevant articles related to pelvic floor dysfunction and pelvic organ prolapse, interstitial cystitis, neurogenic bladder, nocturia, urinary tract infections, urolithiasis, urinary incontinence, benign prostatic hyperplasia, overactive bladder, and erectile dysfunction of which the data was reviewed.

Conclusion: Although the data in estimating the economic burden is limited, existing evidence demonstrates a significant component of health care spending on NCGUC. Much of the spending is out-of-pocket and indirect costs that are difficult to measure which may increase the magnitude of the costs. There is a need for future research that takes a holistic look at the economic impact of NCGUC.