Economic cost of visual impairment in Japan

Abstract

Objective: To quantify the total economic cost of visual impairment in Japan. Methods: A prevalence-based approach was adopted using data on visual impairment, the national health system, and indirect costs to capture the economic impact of visual impairment in 2007. Results: In 2007, visual impairment affected more than 1.64 million people in Japan and cost around ¥8785.4 billion (US $72.8 billion) across the economy, equivalent to 1.7% of Japan's gross domestic product. The loss of well-being (years of life lost from disability and premature mortality) cost ¥5863.6 billion (US $48.6 billion). Direct health system costs were ¥1338.2 billion (US $11.1 billion). Other financial co..