Disease Burden

What is disease burden?

Disease burden refers to the impact of a health condition on individuals, communities, and society as a whole. It includes both the morbidity (illness) and mortality (death) associated with a disease, as well as its economic and social costs. Disease burden is typically measured using metrics like Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) and Quality-Adjusted Life Years (QALYs), which help quantify the years of healthy life lost due to illness, disability, or premature death.

Why is understanding disease burden important?

Understanding disease burden helps public health professionals, policymakers, and healthcare providers prioritize health interventions, allocate resources effectively, and evaluate the cost-effectiveness of healthcare treatments. It offers a comprehensive view of the societal impact of diseases, beyond just the number of cases or deaths, aiding in the development of strategies for prevention and treatment.