Economic Evaluation of Treatment Options in Patients with Alzheimer’s DiseaseA Systematic Review of Cost-Effectiveness Analyses

Introduction: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is common among the elderly; it is responsible for 60–80% of all dementia cases. AD is characterized by cognitive decline, behavioural and psychological symptoms, and reductions in functioning and independence. Because of its progressive neurodegenerative nature and unknown aetiology, the burden of AD becomes increasingly significant in an aging population. Estimates indicate that 35.6 million people worldwide suffered from AD in 2010. By 2030 and 2050, this figure is predicted to increase to 65.7 million and 115.4 million, respectively. Costs will also rise along with the increase in the number of people diagnosed with AD. In 2010, the world-wide costs associated with dementia were estimated to be $US604 billion.