The Sage Group

Chronic Venous Disease (CVD), Epidemiology, Costs and Consequences

The costs of chronic diseases represent a significant burden on the U.S. healthcare system. Afflicting an estimated 175 million U.S. citizens, chronic venous disease (CVD) is the one of the most prevalent chronic diseases. Its prevalence dwarfs other chronic diseases including peripheral artery disease (20 million), diabetes (29 million) and all cardiovascular diseases combined (86 million). Despite this CVD is underestimated, underdiagnosed and undertreated.

This report contains a comprehensive analysis of the peer-reviewed literature published on epidemiology, costs and consequences of chronic venous disease. CVD, defined as CEAP classifications C0-C6, ranges in severity from no visible or palpable signs of disease to active venous ulcers. The analysis focuses on varicose veins (C2) and the more severe forms of the disease, chronic venous insufficiency or CVI (C3-C6), especially venous ulcers (C5-C6).

The published literature contains widely varying venous disease prevalence and incidence estimates. Research on epidemiology in the U.S. is sparse and many of the frequently quoted older studies have significant limitations.

One of the primary purposes of the report is to estimate the current U.S. prevalence and incidence of varicose veins, CVI and venous ulcers. THE SAGE GROUP’s estimates are based on conclusions reached after a thorough review of all studies containing percentage prevalence and incidence data. Varicose veins, CVI and venous ulcers are estimated based on the 2015 U.S. population combined with the most reasonable and appropriate percentage prevalence and incidence data.

Another primary purpose of the report is to quantify the current economic impact of chronic venous disease, especially venous ulcers. It appears that these costs have frequently been underestimated. This reflects the fact that the majority of quoted U.S. CVD cost estimates are based on 1980s European cost studies, as well as lower incidence and prevalence numbers. Because of differences in clinical practice, reimbursement systems and prices, costs cannot be compared across countries. THE SAGE GROUP’s economic estimates employ U.S. data with all costs inflated to 2015 dollars.

Price: $6,100

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