Socio-economic damage caused by elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels

Objective. To assess the social and economic damage caused by the elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in the Russian Federation population from the state’s standpoint. Material and methods. Based on the ESSE-RF study data on the LDL-C level and the literature data on the corresponding relative risk, the population attributable fraction (PAF) of this risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD) and ischemic stroke in the population under the age of 65 years was calculated. The social and economic damage caused by LDL-C is modeled as a proportion equal to the PAF of the CHD and ischemic stroke socio-economic burden in Russia for this age group. The probable damage value associated with LDL-C in persons 65 years and older was also calculated. Results. Elevated LDL-C levels in persons younger than 65 years account for more than half of ischemic stroke and CHD, including myocardial infarction, as well as a reduction in life expectancy by 0.7 years in males and 0.3 years in females. The annual medical costs associated with these diseases amounted to 51.4 billion rubles, and the social costs amounted to 29.0 billion rubles. The annual damage to gross domestic product (GDP) is estimated at 209.1 billion rubles. Considering all the lost «economically active» years, the GDP damage exceeds 1 trillion rubles. The estimated contribution of LDL-C to the annual damage associated with coronary heart disease and ischemic stroke in the age group of individuals 65 years and older is estimated at 78.9 billion rubles, including 62.5 billion rubles in medical and social care costs. Conclusion. Significant socio-economic damage caused by elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels indicates the need for preventive measures to control this risk factor, starting at a young age.