The world is amidst a profound demographic transformation, with aging populations commanding attention. By 2030, the 60-and-above demographic is set to swell by over one-third, surpassing children under five for the first time in history. Meanwhile, the surge in noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) among younger age groups exacerbates the strain on health care resource as populations age.
Data from the 2016 Global Burden of Disease Study vividly illustrates the grim reality: A substantial portion of adult deaths stem from preventable lower respiratory infections like influenza, pneumococcal disease, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
This places unprecedented pressure on public spending and health care resources, further compounded by treatment backlogs and the escalating threats of climate change and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Despite strides in health innovation and technology, one of the most cost-effective public health tools, immunization, remains vastly underutilized.
A groundbreaking study from the Office of Health Economics has delved into the socioeconomic value of adult immunization. Analyzing data from four key immunization programs — against influenza, pneumococcal disease, RSV and herpes zoster — the study draws from 10 diverse countries with varying levels of wealth, societal contexts and health systems.
The findings are staggering. Across the sample of countries, adult vaccination programs can return up to 19 times their initial investment. This is a wakeup call. To confront the growing threats to our health systems, we must undergo a paradigm shift in health budget prioritization, embracing a prevention-first mindset that unlocks the full value and benefits of immunization.
Maximizing adult immunization impact for health care system resilience
It is undeniable that a life-course approach to immunization, with expansion into adulthood, not only prevents diseases and lowers mortality rates but also promotes healthy aging, manages NCD comorbidities, and reduces the risk of AMR and associated health care system resource use.
Population aging is an irreversible global trend. Hence, preventing infections becomes crucial, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular disease, where infection poses a higher risk of complications and death. For instance, influenza vaccination significantly reduces the risk of influenza in a single season and improves survival outcomes for cancer patients. It is increasingly realized that vaccines deliver additional value in maintaining regular health care services and reducing excess demand.
Vaccination is also pivotal in fighting AMR by preventing numerous diseases, from primary or secondary infections, associated with antimicrobial use or misuse, thus reducing the evolution of antibiotic resistance. Studies have shown a substantial reduction in antibiotic prescribing for influenza-like illness among vaccinated low-risk adults. Yet, the impact of vaccination is often overlooked in cost-effectiveness analyses.
Adult immunization as a capital investment
Expanding vaccination coverage isn’t merely about personal health; it’s a strategic investment in the resilience of our health care systems, societies and economies.
Across various countries, vaccination programs have proven to generate substantial value, outweighing their costs multiple times over. This presents governments with a compelling opportunity to pre-empt drastic measures in a world already facing health system pressures, and to bolster national welfare.
In concrete terms, this translates to billions of dollars in net monetary benefits pouring back into society. According to the Office of Health Economics, each individual vaccinated against flu, pneumococcal disease, RSV and herpes zoster generates an average societal value of up to $4,637. By expanding vaccine coverage, governments can build a healthier society and more resilient economies.
Vaccine-preventable conditions currently cost G20 economies $1 trillion in annual productivity loss among those aged 60-64. Productivity value in immunized populations serves as another compelling argument for the economic benefits of adult vaccination programs. For instance, in Australia and South Africa, vaccinating just 15 percent of the population against the flu could halve total productivity losses across the community. Similarly, pneumococcal vaccination yields significant economic benefits, with the potential of reducing productivity losses by €124 million annually in Italy alone.
Fortifying health and wealth: The immunization imperative
Robust adult immunization programs are essential bridges to realize the full potential of preventative health care. To ensure their resilience and effectiveness, these programs demand robust financial and political backing. With returns on investment comparable to childhood immunization programs, prioritizing adult immunization offers substantial value for health care systems, societies and economies alike. The urgency to act is paramount amidst pressing global health challenges, many of which can be mitigated through prioritizing prevention. Let us unite and forge a path toward a more resilient future for all.
The post Unlocking the full value of adult immunization appeared first on Politico.
