Cost-effectiveness analysis of echinococcosis-hydatidosis eradication project in Sardinia.

In this study we attempt to evaluate the convenience of a campaign to eradicate the echinococcosis in Sardinia vs a 'do-nothing' or do-very-little policy adopted at this time. The main conditions which have to be met in setting up the eradication programme are identified as follows: (a) precise knowledge of the real diffusion of the parasitosis in man and animals; (b) eradication project control (action research); (c) health education; (d) reduction of stray canine population; (e) anthelmintics distribution and permanent health control to registered dogs. In Italy, echinococcosis-hydatidosis is present in many regions but in none has reached the diffusion rate present in Sardinia where over 200 patients per year are surgically treated, with a prevalence rate of 13.32 per 100,000 inhabitants. The disease does not spare any social or age group. The economic aspects of hydatidosis involve losses due both to human and to livestock resources, evaluated in monetary or non-monetary terms, according to circumstances. As a method to evaluate the human life has been assumed the years gained related to the Potential Years of Life Lost (PYLL). Several Net Present Values (NPV) have been calculated under alternative discount rates inclusive of the Internal Rate of Return (IRR).