The Reduction of the Productivity Burden of Cardiovascular Disease by Improving Risk Factor Control Among Australians with Type 2 Diabetes: A 10-Year Dynamic Analysis

Authors:

Dina Abushanab1, Daoud Al-Badriyeh2, Clara Marquina1, Jedidiah I Morton1,3, Melanie Lloyd1, Ella Zomer4, Stella Talic4, Danny Liew5, Zanfina Ademi1,4,6

Affiliations:

1Health Economics and Policy Evaluation Research (HEPER), Centre for Medicine Use and Safety, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia

2 College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar

3 Diabetes and Population Health, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia

4 School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia

5 The Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia

6 School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland

Summary:
A recent study has provided important insights into the economic and productivity impacts of cardiovascular disease (CVD) among Australians aged 40 to 69 with type 2 diabetes (T2D). This research introduces a novel metric—productivity-adjusted life-years (PALYs)—to quantify not only the lifespan but also the productivity lost due to the dual burden of CVD and T2D.The study presents concerning projections, estimating that, between 2023 and 2032, Australians with T2D will experience productivity losses equivalent to 1.21 million PALYs due to CVD. This loss equates to an economic impact of approximately AU$ 259 billion, underscoring the significant financial toll of these chronic conditions on Australia’s economy.
The research also modelled various scenarios to evaluate potential productivity gains from better management of CVD risk factors. For instance, a reduction in T2D incidence could yield substantial gains, with a potential increase of 320,000 PALYs and financial savings approaching AU$68 billion. Similarly, improved control of blood pressure, smoking prevalence, and cholesterol, could save an estimated 8,000, 29,000, and 7,000 PALYs, respectively, translating to economic benefits  of over AU$1.7 billion, AU$6.2 billion, and AU$1.6 billion, respectively .
These findings highlight the critical need for public health initiatives that prioritise the prevention and management of CVD, particularly for those with T2D. Many Australians at risk may currently miss out on essential preventive care, suggesting that investment in programs promoting healthy lifestyles is vital. Effective initiatives in smoking cessation, diabetes prevention, regular health screenings, and management of blood pressure and cholesterol could improve not only health outcomes but also national economic productivity. A healthier workforce translates to stronger economic stability and improved quality of life for individuals, their families, employers, and communities.
The study’s findings call for a concerted effort by policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organisations to create accessible preventive care and health education environments. Prioritising proactive health management strategies could help reduce CVD risks and improve life expectancy and productivity for Australians with T2D. Public awareness campaigns that connect lifestyle choices with chronic disease outcomes may also encourage healthier behaviours at a population level.
For decision-makers, this study underscores that investment in health initiatives can lead to significant long-term economic returns. Although initial funding may seem substantial, the payoff in enhanced productivity and reduced healthcare costs promises to be substantial, making it a strategic priority for Australia’s health and economic policies.

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