Wilson disease (WD) is a rare genetic disorder that disrupts copper metabolism, leading to copper accumulation primarily in the liver and brain. This nationwide study from France utilized data from the French health database (Système National des Données de Santé [SNDS]) to investigate the prevalence, patient characteristics, and healthcare costs associated with WD between 2010 and 2019.
Prevalence and Demographics
- The study identified 2,287 patients with WD, equivalent to 1 case per 33,898 people in 2019.
- The average age of patients was 39.9 years, with slightly younger ages seen in newly diagnosed cases.
- Around half the patients were male.
Clinical Features
Patients exhibited various symptoms:
- 44% had liver-related (hepatic) issues.
- 33% experienced neurological symptoms.
- 18% showed psychiatric symptoms.
Economic Impact
- The average annual hospitalization cost per patient was approximately €4,274, reflecting the complexity of managing the disease.
- Nearly 23% of patients required sick leave, with associated costs averaging €789 per year.
Wilson disease remains a significant health challenge, with diverse symptoms and considerable healthcare costs. This study highlights the importance of timely diagnosis and effective management to reduce the burden on patients and healthcare systems. Read the full article here.