The socioeconomic impact of inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) in Belgium: A cost-of-illness study.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are a diverse group of vision-threatening conditions caused by genetic mutations, affecting over 5.5 million people globally. These diseases have profound impact on patients, families and society. However, there is a lack of comprehensive data on their prevalence, economic burden, and societal costs. This information gap hinders effective decision-making, and the allocation of resources needed for research, treatment, and patient support, ultimately compromising care and outcomes.

Objective

To quantify the societal burden of IRDs in Belgium in 2023.

Methods

This cost-of-illness study estimated the total costs of the 11 most prevalent IRDs in Belgium. A survey of Belgian IRD patients collected primary data on disease burde

SUBMITTER: Vandersmissen I 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12843553 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature