Costos médicos directos de la atención médica de pacientes con cáncer de mama / Direct medical costs in a cohort of patients with breast cancer

Introducción: el costo económico del tratamiento de cáncer de mama (CM) y el aumento en su incidencia y prevalencia desafía la estabilidad financiera de cualquier sistema de salud. Objetivo: determinar los costos médicos directos (CMD) del tratamiento de CM y los factores asociados a estos costos. Material y métodos: evaluación económica parcial en una cohorte retrospectiva de 160 pacientes con diagnóstico conf irmado de CM. Se consideraron CMD desde la perspectiva del IMSS. Se utilizó análisis de bootstrapping para tratar incertidumbre y el modelo lineal generalizado para identificar factores asociados a costos. Resultados: el costo promedio anual (CPA) del tratamiento de CM fue de $ 251,018 pesos. En estadio 1, $ 116,123; estadio II, $ 242,132; estadio III, $ 287,946, y estadio IV, $ 358,792 pesos. El CPA fue mayor en progresión del CM ($ 380,117 frente a no progresión $ 172,897), y en pacientes que fallecieron durante el seguimiento ($ 357,579) frente a aquellas que sobrevivieron ($ 218,699). Conclusiones: el CPA del tratamiento de CM fue de $ 251,018 pesos. Los CMD aumentan significativamente conforme las pacientes presentan estadios más avanzados de la enfermedad. Los factores asociados al CMD fueron edad, estadios II, III y la progresión del CM.

Background: The economic cost of breast cancer (BC) treatment and the increase in incidence and prevalence challenges the financial stability of any healthcare system. Objective: To determine direct medical costs (DMC) of BC treatment and factors associated with DMC. Material and methods: Partial economic evaluation in a retrospective cohort of 160 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of BC. DMC was considered from the IMSS perspective. Bootstrapping analysis was used to deal with uncertainty and generalized linear model to identify factors associated with DCM Results: The total average annual cost of BC treatment was $251,018 mexican pesos. In clinical stage I was $116,123, stage II $242,132, stage III $287,946, and stage IV $358,792 pesos. In progression disease, DMC were more elevate ($380,117) vs. without progression ($172,897), (p < 0.0001). In patients who died, DMC were $357,579 mexican pesos compared to those who survived ($218,699) (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: The average annual cost of CM treatment was $251,018 pesos. DMCs increase significantly as patients present more advanced stages of the disease. Factors associated with costs were age, stages II, III and the progression of BC.

Custo da Doença em Pacientes com Carcinoma Mamário Tratados com Tamoxifeno / Cost of the Disease in Patients with Breast Cancer Treated with Tamoxifen / Costo de la Enfermedad en Pacientes com Carcinoma Mamário Tratados com Tamoxifeno

Introdução: A estimativa do Instituto Nacional de Câncer José Alencar Gomes da Silva para o Brasil, para cada ano do biênio 2018-2019, foi de 59.700 novos casos de câncer de mama, com um risco estimado de 56,33 casos a cada 100 mil mulheres. Em 2014, os gastos públicos com atenção oncológica foram de aproximadamente R$ 2,5 bilhões. Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto dos custos diretos médicos em pacientes com carcinoma mamário tratados com tamoxifeno pelo Sistema Único de Saúde. Método: Estudo exploratório de custo da doença, quantitativo, retrospectivo, com caráter de prevalência e de abordagem bottom-up. A coleta dos dados foi realizada no ambulatório de Oncologia do Hospital São Vicente em Curitiba, Paraná. Resultados: A média do custo do tratamento dos pacientes foi R$ 14.497,70 em tratamento neoadjuvante ou adjuvante e de R$ 9.108,60 em tratamento paliativo. Em relação a essas variáveis, o custo do tamoxifeno foi o que mais impactou em relação ao custo total do tratamento, representando mais de 80% deste valor. A média do custo anual gasto com tamoxifeno por paciente foi de R$ 1.947,60. Conclusão: O custo médio do tratamento demonstrou ser alto em relação à média salarial dos brasileiros de R$ 2.110.00 (IBGE-2017). Os custos levantados neste estudo podem auxiliar os gestores de saúde pública em estratégias para racionalização dos gastos, otimização do capital e manutenção do atendimento à população.

Introduction: The estimate of the National Cancer Institute José Alencar Gomes da Silva, for each year of the 2018-2019 biennium in Brazil, was 59,700 new cases of breast cancer, with an estimated risk of 56.33 cases per 100,000 women. In 2014, public expenditures on cancer care were approximately R$ 2.5 billion. Objective: To evaluate the impact of direct medical costs on breast cancer patients treated with tamoxifen using the Unified Health System. Method: Prospective, quantitative, retrospective, cost-of-disease study with prevalence and bottom-up approach. Data collection was performed at the Oncology Outpatient Clinic of the Hospital São Vicente in Curitiba, Paraná. Results: The mean cost of the treatment was R$ 14,497.70 for neoadjuvant or adjuvant treatment and R$ 9,108.60 for palliative treatment. In relation to these variables, the cost of tamoxifen was the one that most impacted, in relation to the total cost of the treatment, representing more than 80% of this value. The mean annual cost of tamoxifen per patient was R$ 1,947.60. Conclusion: The average cost of treatment was high in relation to the Brazilian average salary of R$ 2,110.00 (IBGE-2017). The costs investigated in this study can help public health managers in strategies to rationalize expenditures, optimize capital and maintain patient care.

Introducción: La estimación del Instituto Nacional del Cáncer José Alencar Gomes da Silva para Brasil, para cada año del bienio 2018-2019, fue de 59,700 casos nuevos de cáncer de mama, con un riesgo estimado de 56.33 casos por 100,000 mujeres. En 2014, los gastos públicos con atención oncológica fueron de aproximadamente R $ 2,5 mil millones. Objetivo: Evaluar el impacto de los costos directos médicos en pacientes con carcinoma mamario tratados con tamoxifeno por el Sistema Único de Salud. Método: Estudio exploratorio de costo de la enfermedad, cuantitativo, retrospectivo, con carácter de prevalencia y de enfoque bottom-up. La recolección de los datos fue realizada en el Ambulatorio de Oncología del Hospital São Vicente en Curitiba, Paraná. Resultados: El promedio del costo del tratamiento de los pacientes fue R$ 14.497,70 en tratamiento neoadyuvante o adyuvante y de R$ 9.108,60 en tratamiento paliativo. En relación a estas variables el costo del tamoxifeno fue el que más impactó en relación al costo total del tratamiento, representando más del 80% de este valor. El promedio del costo anual gastado con tamoxifeno por paciente fue de R$ 1.947,60. Conclusión:El costo promedio del tratamiento demostró ser alto en relación al promedio salarial de los brasileños de R $ 2.110.00 (IBGE-2017). Los costos levantados en este estudio pueden auxiliar a los gestores de salud pública en estrategias para racionalización de los gastos, optimización del capital y mantenimiento de la atención a la población.

Hospitalization and mortality in Mexico due to breast cancer since its inclusion in the catastrophic expenditures scheme / Hospitalización y mortalidad en México por cáncer de mama a partir de su inclusión en el esquema de gastos catastróficos

Abstract Objective: To compare trends in hospital discharges and mortality due to breast cancer (BC) in Mexico from 2004 to 2012 by insurance condition before and after incorporating BC comprehensive treatment into the System of Social Protection in Health (Sistema de Protrección Social en Salud, SPSS) in 2007. Materials and methods: Data on BC hospital discharges and mortality reported in women aged 25 years and over were obtained from the National Health Information System. Mortality rates were adjusted by age and state. Results: At the national level, a growing tendency in hospital discharges was observed, mainly for women without social security, while mortality rate remained constant. Mortality rates by state show that lower marginalization index corresponded to higher mortality. Conclusions: A differential behavior was observed among women according to insurance condition, partly due to the inclusion of BC treatment in the SPSS.

Resumen Objetivo: Comparar las tendencias de egresos hospitalarios y mortalidad por cáncer de mama (CaMa) en México de 2004 a 2012, según esquema de aseguramiento, antes y después de la incorporación del tratamiento integral del CaMa al Sistema de Protección Social en Salud (SPSS) en 2007. Material y métodos: Los egresos hospitalarios y de mortalidad por CaMa en mujeres de 25 años o más se obtuvieron del Sistema Nacional de Información en Salud. Las tasas de mortalidad se ajustaron por edad y entidad federativa. Resultados: A nivel nacional, hubo una tendencia creciente de los egresos hospitalarios, principalmente para mujeres sin seguridad social, mientras que la tasa de mortalidad se mantuvo constante. Las tasas de mortalidad fueron mayores en estados con menor índice de marginación. Conclusiones: Se observó un comportamiento diferencial entre las mujeres según esquema de aseguramiento en salud debido, en parte, a la inclusión del tratamiento de CaMa al SPSS.

Quality of life domains affected in women with breast cancer / Los dominios afectados en la calidad de vida de mujeres con neoplasia mamaria / Os domínios afetados na qualidade de vida de mulheres com neoplasia mamária

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the quality of life of women suffering from breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy in public and private health care systems. METHOD: It is an observational, prospective study with 64 women suffering from breast cancer. Data was collected with two instruments: Quality of Life Questionnaire C30 and Breast Cancer Module BR23. By applying Mann Whitney and Friedman's statistical tests, p values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The significant results in public health care systems were: physical functions, pain symptom, body image, systemic effects and outlook for the future. In private health care systems, the results were sexual, social functions and body image. Women's quality of life was harmed by chemotherapy in both institutions. CONCLUSION: The quality of life of women has been harmed as a result of the chemotherapy treatment in both institutions, but in different domains, indicating the type of nursing care that should be provided according to the characteristics of each group. .

OBJETIVO: Se objetivó investigar la calidad de vida de las mujeres con neoplasia mamaria sometidas a quimioterapia, en el seguro médico público y privado. MÉTODO: Se trata de un estudio observacional, de cohorte, prospectivo, realizado con 64 mujeres con neoplasia mamaria. Los datos fueron recolectados mediante dos instrumentos Quality of Life Questionnaire C30 y Breast Cancer Module BR23. Para el análisis los datos se utilizaron pruebas estadísticas de Mann Whitney y Friedman, con valores estadísticamente significativas para p <005. RESULTADOS: Fueron verificadas diferencias estadísticamente significativas en el seguro médico público: la función física, síntoma dolor, la imagen corporal, los efectos sistémicos en las perspectivas de futuro, en el seguro médico privado fueron la función sexual, la imagen social y el cuerpo. CONCLUSIÓN: La calidad de vida de las mujeres se ha visto comprometida como consecuencia de la quimioterapia en ambas instituciones, pero en diferentes dominios que subsidia la atención de enfermería dirigida según las características de cada grupo. .

OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a qualidade de vida das mulheres com neoplasia mamária submetidas à quimioterapia nos convênios público e privado. MÉTODO: Trata-se de estudo observacional, de coorte prospectivo, realizado com 64 mulheres portadoras de neoplasia mamária. Os dados foram coletados com a utilização dos instrumentos Quality of Life Questionnaire C30 e Breast Cancer Module BR23. Para análise dos dados, foram utilizados os testes estatísticos de Mann Whitney e Friedman, com valores estatisticamente significantes para p<005. RESULTADOS: Os resultados significantes no convênio público foram: função física, dor, imagem corporal, efeitos sistêmicos e perspectivas futuras. No convênio privado, foram: função sexual, social e imagem corporal. CONCLUSÃO: A qualidade de vida das mulheres foi comprometida em decorrência do tratamento quimioterápico em ambas as instituições, porém em domínios diferentes, o que subsidia um cuidado de enfermagem direcionado de acordo com as características de cada grupo. .

Procedures’ costs related to outpatient chemotherapy treatment of women suffering from breast cancer / Costo de los procedimientos relacionados con el tratamiento de quimioterapia ambulatoria para mujeres con cáncer de mama / Custo de procedimentos relacionados ao tratamento quimioterápico ambulatorial de mulheres portadoras de câncer de mama

To identify the direct cost of procedures related to an outpatient chemotherapy treatment for women with breast cancer. Method: This is a quantitative research, using the case study methodology, performed in an outpatient chemotherapy of a private hospital. The total cost was calculated by multiplying the time spent by professionals involved in therapeutic procedures, the unit cost of direct labor, adding to the cost of materials, drugs and solutions. For performing the calculations, we used the Brazilian currency (R$). Results: The average total cost per chemotherapy session corresponded to R$ 1,783.01 (100%), being R$ 1,671.66 (93,75%) spent with drugs, R$ 74,98 (4.21%) with materials, R$ 28.49 (1.60%) with labor and R$ 7.88 (0.44%) with solutions. Conclusion: The results may support discussions and decision making for the management of costs related to chemotherapy aimed at reducing expenses and eliminating waste without harm to the care provided. 
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Identificar el costo directo de los procedimientos relacionados con el tratamiento de quimioterapia ambulatoria para las mujeres con cáncer de mama. Método: Investigación cuantitativa, del tipo de estudio de caso, realizada en el ambulatorio de quimioterapia de un hospital privado Se calculó el costo total mediante la multiplicación del tiempo dedicado por los profesionales involucrados en el proceso, por el costo unitario de la mano de obra directa, sumándose al costo de los materiales, fármacos y soluciones. Para la realización de los cálculos se utilizó la moneda brasileña (R$). Resultados: El costo total medio, por sesión de quimioterapia, correspondió a R$ 1.783,01 (100%), de los cuales R$ 1.671,66 (93,75%) fueron con fármacos, R$ 74,98 (4,21%) con materiales, R$ 28,49 (1,60%) con mano de obra y R$ 7,88 (0,44%) con soluciones. Conclusión: Los resultados logrados podrán servir como base para las discusiones y la toma de decisiones con respecto a la gestión de los costos relacionados con la quimioterapia, con vistas a la reducción de los gastos y la eliminación de los desperdicios, sin perjuicios a la atención prestada.

Objetivo: Identificar o custo direto de procedimentos relacionados ao tratamento quimioterápico ambulatorial de mulheres portadoras de câncer de mama. Método: Pesquisa quantitativa, do tipo estudo de caso, realizada no ambulatório de quimioterapia de um hospital privado. O custo total foi calculado multiplicando-se o tempo despendido pelos profissionais envolvidos nos procedimentos terapêuticos, pelo custo unitário da mão de obra direta, somando-se ao custo dos materiais, fármacos e soluções. Para a realização dos cálculos, utilizou-se a moeda brasileira (R$). Resultados: O custo total médio, por sessão de quimioterapia, correspondeu a R$ 1.783,01 (100%), sendo R$ 1.671,66 (93,75%) com fármacos, R$ 74,98 (4,21%) com materiais, R$ 28,49 (1,60%) com mão de obra e R$ 7,88 (0,44%) com soluções. Conclusão: Os resultados obtidos poderão subsidiar discussões e tomadas de decisões em relação à gestão dos custos relativos à quimioterapia visando à redução dos gastos e a eliminação dos desperdícios, sem prejuízos ao atendimento prestado. 
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ErbB2+ metastatic breast cancer treatment after progression on trastuzumab: a cost-effectiveness analysis for a developing country / Tratamientos para cáncer de seno metastásico ErbB2+ en progresión Post-Trastuzumab: Análisis de costo-efectividad para un país en vía de desarrollo

Objective Breast cancer (BC) and metastatic breast cancer (MBC) are significant causes of deaths amongst women worldwide, including developing countries. The cost of treatment in the latter is even more of an issue than in higher income countries. ErbB2 overexpression is a marker of poor prognosis and the goal for targeted therapy. This study was aimed at evaluating the cost-effectiveness in Colombia of ErbB2+ MBC treatment after progression on trastuzumab. Methods A decision analytic model was constructed for evaluating such treatment in a hypothetical cohort of ErbB2+MBC patients who progressed after a first scheme involving trastuzumab. The alternatives compared were lapatinib+capecitabine (L+C), and trastuzumab+a chemotherapy agent (capecitabine, vinorelbine or a taxane). Markov models were used for calculating progression-free time and the associated costs. Effectiveness estimators for such therapy were identified from primary studies; all direct medical costs based on national fees-guidelines were included. Sensitivity was analyzed and acceptability curves estimated. A 3 % discount rate and third-payer perspective were used within a 5-year horizon. Results L+C dominated its comparators. Its cost-effectiveness ratio was COP $49,725,045 per progression-free year. The factors most influencing the results were the alternatives' hazard ratios and the cost of trastuzumab. Conclusion Lapatinib was cost-effective compared to its alternatives for treating MBC after progression on trastuzumab using a Colombian decision analytic model.

Objetivo El cáncer de seno (CS) y cáncer de seno metastásico (CSM) son importantes causas de muerte entre las mujeres a nivel mundial y en países en vía de desarrollo. En estos últimos los costos de los tratamientos son aún más preocupantes que en países de alto ingreso. La sobreexpresión de ErbB2 es marcador de pobre pronóstico y objetivo de terapias dirigidas. Se evaluó la costo-efectividad de los tratamientos de CSM ErbB2+ en progresión post-trastuzumab en Colombia. Métodos Se desarrolló un modelo analístico de decisiones para evaluar los tratamientos en una cohorte hipotética de CSM ErbB2+ que progresaron después de un primer esquema con trastuzumab. Las alternativas comparadas fueron: lapatinib+capecitabina (L+C), y trastuzumab más un agente quimioterápico (capecitabina, vinorelbinao un taxano). Se usaron modelos de Markov para calcular el tiempo libre de progresión y los costos asociados. Estimaciones de efectividad fueron identificadas de estudios primarios. Se incluyeron todos los costos médicos directos basados en los manuales tarifarios nacionales. Se realizaron análisis de sensibilidad y curvas de aceptabilidad. Se descontaron costos y resultados a una tasa anual de 3 %, la perspectiva de análisis fue del tercer pagador y el horizonte de 5 años. Resultados L+C domina a sus comparadores con un razón de costo-efectividad de COP $49 725 045 por año libre de progresión. Los factores que más influencian los resultados son los hazard ratios de las alternativas y el costo de trastuzumab. Conclusión Lapatinib es costo-efectivo comparado con sus alternativas para el tratamiento del CSM después de la progresión con trastuzumab en el escenario colombiano.

Perfil de internações do Sistema Único de Saúde por câncer da mama em mulheres idosas no Brasil / Profile SUS admissions for breast cancer in older women in Brazil

Introdução: O câncer da mama em idosas provoca impactos significantes sobre as taxas de morbimortalidade e apresenta repercussões econômicas consideráveis na sociedade, resultando em gastos com os serviços de saúde. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever a frequência do câncer da mama a partir de 60 anos nas capitais e nas grandes regiões brasileiras. Métodos: Estudo de base populacional descritivo do câncer de mama em idosas, no Brasil, no triênio 2009-2011, utilizando o Sistema de Informações Hospitalares SIH/SUS com dados foram oriundos das Autorizações de Internações Hospitalares (AIHs). Resultados: Os percentuais de idosas com câncer de mama internadas no SUS aumentaram nas capitais brasileiras. Houve uma variação de 0,6% apresentando câncer da mama como diagnóstico principal. O maior incremento de casos ocorreu em Boa Vista, Vitória e Curitiba, e a maior queda percentual em Rio Branco, Aracaju, Palmas e Cuiabá. Cerca de 1,2% dos gastos totais com a internação por câncer da mama em idosas no Brasil foi da ordem de R$ 6.083.625,00 em 2009, R$ 6.506.352,00 em 2010, e R$ 6.954.573,00 em 2011. Conclusões: Câncer de mama em idosas gera um alto custo para o SUS, com cinco capitais apresentando aumento no número de internações (AU)

Introduction: Breast cancer in elderly women causes signifi cant impacts on morbidity and mortality rates and has considerable economic impact on society, resulting in high spending with health services. The aim of this study was to describe the frequency of breast cancer from 60 years of age in the capitals and main regions of Brazil. Methods: A population-based descriptive study of breast cancer in older women in Brazil in the 2009-2011 period, using the SIH/SUS Hospital Information System with data coming from the Hospital Admissions Registry (AIHs). Results: The percentage of elderly women hospitalized by SUS for breast cancer increased in the Brazilian capitals. There was a 0.6 % growth of breast cancer as the primary diagnosis. The largest increases in cases occurred in Boa Vista , Curitiba and Vitória and the largest percentage drops were in Rio Branco , Aracaju , Palmas and Cuiabá. About 1.2% of total expenditure on hospitalizations for breast cancer in elderly women in Brazil amounted to R$ 6,083,625.00 in 2009, R$ 6,506,352.00 in 2010 and R$ 6,954,573,00 in 2011. Conclusions: Breast cancer in elderly women generates a high cost to the SUS, with fi ve capitals showing an increase in the number of hospitalizations (AU)

Custo-efetividade de um programa de rastreamento organizado de câncer de mama no Sul do Brasil / Cost-effectiveness of an organized breast cancer screening program in Southern Brazil / Coste-efectividad de un programa organizado para la detección precoz del cáncer de mama en el sur de Brasil

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o custo-efetividade de um programa organizado de rastreamento mamográfico de câncer de mama implementado na cidade de Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil (Núcleo Mama Porto Alegre - NMPOA). Foi construído modelo de Markov para estimar a relação de custo-efetividade incremental do NMPOA em comparação à situação atual de atenção ao câncer de mama no SUS, em coorte hipotética de mulheres de 40-69 anos com risco de desenvolver câncer de mama. Os parâmetros foram coletados do NMPOA e da literatura nacional. Na estratégia NMPOA, a efetividade foi modelada levando-se em conta a real adesão da população participante do rastreamento. A efetividade foi medida em anos de vida ajustados para qualidade (QALY). A relação de custoefetividade incremental no caso base foi de R$ 13.426,00 por QALY. Esse resultado foi pouco sensível à variação dos principais parâmetros do modelo nas análises de sensibilidade. Considerando o limiar usualmente sugerido como bastante atrativo do ponto de vista econômico no Brasil, o rastreamento do câncer de mama nos moldes do NMPOA é custo-efetivo em cidades com alta incidência deste tipo de câncer.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of an organized breast cancer mammographic screening program implemented in Porto Alegre (Núcleo Mama Porto Alegre - NMPOA), Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. A Markov model was constructed to estimate the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of NMPOA compared to current BC diagnosis and care in the Brazilian public health system, in a hypothetical cohort of women aged 40-69 years at risk of developing breast cancer. Model parameters were collected from NMPOA and the national literature. In the NMPOA strategy, effectiveness was modeled taking into account the actual observed screening adherence. Effectiveness was measured in quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). Incremental cost-effectiveness ratio in the base case was R$ 13,426 per QALY. This result was not sensitive to variation in the main model parameters in sensitivity analyses. Considering the threshold usually suggested as highly attractive in Brazil, breast cancer screening as performed in NMPOA is cost-effective in cities with high incidence of breast cancer.

El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el coste-efectividad de un programa organizado para el diagnóstico precoz con mamografía del cáncer de mama, implementado en Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil (Núcleo Mama Porto Alegre -NMPOA). Se utilizó el modelo de Markov, con el fin de estimar la tasa de costeefectividad incremental de NMPOA, comparada con la situación actual en lo referente a la atención del cáncer de mama en el sistema público de salud brasileño. El estudio se realizó en una cohorte hipotética de mujeres entre 40-69 años con riesgo de cáncer de mama. Los parámetros se obtuvieron del NMPOA y literatura nacional. En la estrategia del NMPOA, la eficacia se modeló teniendo en cuenta la adhesión real de la población al programa. La efectividad se midió en años de vida ajustados por calidad (QALY). La tasa de coste-efectividad incremental en el caso base fue R$ 13.426,00 por QALY. Este resultado no fue sensible a la variación de los principales parámetros del modelo en el análisis de sensibilidad. Teniendo en cuenta el umbral frecuentemente aceptado como muy alto económicamente en Brasil, un programa similar al NMPOA es coste-efectivo en ciudades con alta incidencia de cáncer de mama.

Treatment of breast cancer patients from a public healthcare system in a private center: costs of care for a pilot public-private partnership in oncology / Pacientes com câncer de mama oriundas do Sistema Único de Saúde tratadas no setor privado: custos de um piloto de parceria público-privada em oncologia

OBJECTIVE: To describe the flow and costs associated with the diagnosis and treatment of patients with breast cancer who come from the public healthcare system and were treated at Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein. METHODS: Between August 2009, and December 2011, 51 patients referred by the Unified Public Healthcare System (SUS) had access to Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein for diagnostic radiology, medical oncology, radiotherapy, and oncologic/breast reconstruction surgery. The data were collected retrospectively from the hospital records, patient charts, pharmacy records, and from the hospital billing system. RESULTS: The total sum spent for diagnosis and treatment of these 51 patients was US$ 1,457,500.00. This value encompassed expenses with a total of 85 hospitalizations, 2,875 outpatient visits, 16 emergency room visits, and all expenses associated with these stays at the hospital. The expenditure for treatment of each patient submitted to biopsy, breast conserving surgery, adjuvant chemotherapy without trastuzumab (a regime with taxane followed by anthracycline), radiotherapy, and 5 years of tamoxifen was approximately US$ 25,500.00. CONCLUSION: Strategies for cost-reduction of treatment in the private setting are necessary to enable future large-scale public-private partnerships in oncology.

OBJETIVO: Descrever os fluxos e os custos associados ao diagnóstico e tratamento de pacientes com câncer de mama provenientes do Sistema Único de Saúde e tratadas no Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein. MÉTODOS: Entre agosto de 2009 e dezembro de 2011, 51 pacientes do Sistema Único de Saúde tiveram acesso à estrutura do Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein para os serviços de radiologia, oncologia, radioterapia e cirurgia oncológica/reconstrutora de mama. Os dados foram coletados retrospectivamente, a partir do registro hospitalar de câncer, prontuários, registros de farmácia e do sistema de cobrança do hospital. RESULTADOS: O valor total gasto para o diagnóstico e tratamento dessas 51 pacientes foi de R$ 2.915.000,00. Esse valor compreendeu os gastos com um total de 85 internações, 2.875 atendimentos ambulatoriais, 16 atendimentos no pronto atendimento e todos os custos associados a essas passagens pelo hospital. O valor gasto para o tratamento de cada paciente submetida à biópsia, setorectomia, quimioterapia adjuvante sem trastuzumabe (esquema com taxano seguido de antraciclina), radioterapia e 5 anos de tamoxifeno, foi de, aproximadamente, R$ 51.000,00 CONCLUSÃO: Estratégias de redução do custo do tratamento na rede privada seriam necessárias para permitir futuras parcerias público-privadas em grande escala, em oncologia.

Costo del proceso diagnóstico del cáncer de mama en las Unidades de Medicina Familiar del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Querétaro, México / Cost of the diagnostic process for breast cancer in the Family Medicine Units of the Mexican Social Security Institute

Objetivo: determinar el costo del proceso diagnóstico del cáncer de mama. Métodos: estudio de costos, en mujeres de 40 años y más, de enero a diciembre del 2010 de las unidades de medicina familiar del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social. La muestra se calculó con la fórmula de promedios para población infinita para un total de 245 mujeres. El costo se estimó mediante la técnica de tiempos y movimientos y consulta de expertos; el costo por uso de intervención se calculó con el uso promedio por intervención multiplicado por el costo unitario del mismo. El costo total del proceso diagnóstico se obtuvo de la suma de los costos de cada uno de las intervenciones. El plan de análisis incluyó promedios, porcentajes e intervalos de confianza. Resultados: el costo promedio del proceso diagnóstico fue de $852,45. Conclusión: el proceso diagnóstico de cáncer de mama incluye tamizaje y casos confirmados. El costo del proceso diagnóstico es relativamente bajo ofreciendo mejores perspectivas para el paciente y el sistema de salud.

Objective: to determine the cost of the diagnostic process for breast cancer. Methods: costs were calculated, in women 40 years and older, from January to December 2010 of the Family Medicine Units of the Mexican Social Security Institute. The sample was calculated with the formula for infinite population averages for a total of 245 women. The cost was estimated by time and motion technique and expert consultation, the intervention cost was calculated using the average usage per intervention multiplied by the unit cost thereof. The total cost of the diagnostic process was obtained from the sum of the costs of each of the interventions. The analysis plan included means, percentages and confidence interval. Results: the average cost of the diagnostic process was $852.45. Conclusions: the diagnostic process for breast cancer include screening and confirmatory cases. The cost of the diagnostic process is low, offers better prospects for the patient and the health system.

Oncoplastic approach in the conservative treatment of breast cancer: analysis of costs / Abordagem oncoplástica no tratamento conservador do câncer mamário: análise de custos

PURPOSE: To analyze the direct costs of conservative surgical treatment of breast cancer, performed in a university hospital, to the Brazilian National Health Care Public System (SUS), checking the impact of the oncoplastic approach on these costs. METHODS: One hundred thirty eight breast cancer patients who had undergone conservative treatment with oncoplastic approach (n=36) or not (control group, n=102), in the period from 2005 to 2010, were enrolled. Sociodemographic and clinical data were recorded. The direct costs of the surgical procedure were obtained and analyzed. RESULTS: Groups did not differ in regard to age (p=0.963), and patients in oncoplastic group had a longer time of hospital stay (p=0.000). The median direct cost for the oncoplastic group was R$461.00 and for the control group was R$229.00 (p=0.000). CONCLUSION: The oncoplastic approach has generated higher direct costs in conservative surgical treatment of breast cancer to SUS.

OBJETIVO: Analisar os custos diretos do tratamento cirúrgico conservador do câncer mamário, realizado pelo Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) em um hospital universitário, verificando o impacto da abordagem oncoplástica sobre estes custos. MÉTODOS: Foram incluídas 138 pacientes submetidas ao tratamento conservador do câncer mamário pelo SUS, com abordagem oncoplástica (n=36) ou não (grupo controle, n=102), no período de 2005 a 2010. Foram registrados dados sócio-demográficos e da operação. Os custos diretos do procedimento cirúrgico foram obtidos e analisados. RESULTADOS: Não houve diferença entre os grupos quanto à idade (p=0.963), e o tempo de internação hospitalar foi maior no grupo oncoplástica (p=0,000). A mediana dos custos diretos do grupo oncoplástica foi de R$461,00 e do grupo controle foi de R$229,00 (p=0,000). CONCLUSÃO: A abordagem oncoplástica gerou custos diretos maiores para o tratamento cirúrgico conservador do câncer mamário pelo SUS.

Análise de Custo-efetividade do rastreamento do câncer de mama com mamografia convencional, digital e ressonância / Analysis of Cost-effectiveness of screening for breast cancer with conventional mammography, digital and magnetic resonance imaging

O objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar análise de custo efetividade da intervenção das mamografias convencional e digital e da ressonância magnética no rastreamento de câncer de mama, comparando com o não rastreamento. Foi construído um modelo markoviano, numa uma coorte hipotética de 100 mil mulheres com rastreamento bianual, cuja linha de base é a história natural da doença. Modelaram-se quatro cenários distintos: (1) a história natural do câncer de mama como linha de base; (2) mamografia com filme convencional; (3) mamografia digital e (4) e ressonância magnética. Os custos dos cenários modelados variaram desde R$ 194.216,68 para a história natural, até R$ 48.614.338,31 para o rastreamento com ressonância magnética. As diferenças de efetividade entre as intervenções variaram de 300 até 78.000 anos de vida ganhos, na coorte de 100 mil mulheres. Em relação à Razão de Custo-Efetividade Incremental, em termos de custo por ano de vida ganhos, a estratégia do rastreamento mamográfico convencional produziu um ano extra por R$ 13.573,07. A Razão de Custo Efetividade Incremental (ICER) da ressonância magnética foi de R$ 2.904.328,88 em relação ao não rastreamento. O estudo mostrou que é mais custo-efetivo realizar o rastreamento com a mamografia convencional do que as outras tecnologias de intervenção.

A cost-effectiveness analysis was conducted in screening for breast cancer. The use of conventional mammography, digital and magnetic resonance imaging were compared with natural disease history as a baseline. A Markov model projected breast cancer in a group of 100,000 women for a 30 year period, with screening every two years. Four distinct scenarios were modeled: (1) the natural history of breast cancer, as a baseline, (2) conventional film mammography, (3) digital mammography and (4) magnetic resonance imaging. The costs of the scenarios modeled ranged from R$ 194.216,68 for natural history, to R$ 48.614.338,31, for screening with magnetic resonance imaging. The difference in effectiveness between the interventions ranged from 300 to 78.000 years of life gained in the cohort. The ratio of incremental cost-effectiveness in terms of cost per life-year gains, conventional mammographic screening has produced an extra year for R$ 13.573,07. The ICER of magnetic resonance imaging was R$ 2.904.328,88, compared to no screening. In conclusion, it is more cost-effective to perform the screening with conventional mammography than other technological interventions.

Evaluación de la utilidad de un programa de cribado mamográfico en Bogotá, Colombia / Evaluating the usefulness of a breast screening program in Bogotá, Colombia

Objetivo Evaluar mediante un modelo de simulación la utilidad de un programa organizado de cribado mamográfico en Bogotá, Colombia. Material y Métodos Diseño análisis de costo-efectividad usando el modelo Markov. Se compara la realización de cribado mamográfico bienal en mujeres de 50 a 69 años con respecto al statu quo en el cual no existe este programa. Se evalúa sobrevida, costos e incrementos en la tasa de costo-efectividad. Resultados El modelo muestra una reducción de la tasa de mortalidad por cáncer de mama en el esquema de cribado mamográfico de ciclo bienal. Se observa que hay un incremento lineal de los años de vida acumulados desde el tercer ciclo con un ahorro acumulado de costos de tratamiento en las diferentes tasas de cribado generando ahorros al sistema de salud.La Razón de costo por año de vida ganado y Producto interno bruto se hace menor de 3 por encima del 50 % de cobertura (indicando que es una intervención costo-efectiva). El costo medio del programa experimenta una disminución porcentual del 40 % cuando se llega al ciclo 10. De allí la disminución de este costo es menor. Conclusiones Según el modelo desarrollado es costo-efectivo adelantar un programa de cribado mamográfico bienal con cobertura mayor al 50 %, obteniéndose reducción en la mortalidad que se hace más notoria desde el tercer ciclo del esquema evaluado, obteniendo un ahorro en los recursos queelsistema de salud destina al cáncer de mama.

Objective Using a simulation model for evaluating the usefulness of an organized breast cancer screening program in Bogotá, Colombia Material and methods The Markov model was used for designing a cost-effectiveness analysis; this was compared to a biennial breast cancer screening for women aged 50 to 69 years old. The disease's natural history, breast screening studies and publications concerning breast cancer were used as input for the model; the number of diagnosed cancer cases, stage distribution and mortality, survival, costs and increased effectiveness rate were also analyzed. Results The model showed that breast cancer mortality rate decreased in biennial breast cancer screening. Life-years-gained became increased from the third cycle onwards. The ratio between the cost of a life-year-gained and gross domestic product was lower than 3 when more than 50 % of the population were screened (meaning that such program would be cost-effective). The program's lowest average cost was achieved by increasing the number of screening cycles as far as the sixth cycle. Conclusions The simulation model for studying the impact of changing a breast cancer screening program's coverage for women aged 50 to 69 years led to ascertaining that introducing biennial frequency would be cost-effective when more than 50 % of the population were studied. A lower mortality rate would result, mainly from the third cycle onwards, thereby saving important health system resources in Bogotá, Colombia.

Expenditure audit of women with breast cancer in a tertiary care hospital of Delhi.

Background: Breast cancer is associated with substantial medical and economic burden. This study assisted the expenditure incurred by the subjects on diagnosis and treatment till the period of follow-up. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective study; a case series of patients studied at the time of diagnosis and followed after 6 months. The study was conducted at one of Hospitals in India, from January 2006 to December 2007. One hundred and seventy-two women with new primary breast cancer were included in the study. During the study period 69 subjects were lost to follow-up. The comparative analysis was done for 103 subjects. Cost implications of breast cancer include direct medical costs and indirect costs. Questionnaire for the data collection was used. Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis were used. Results: The median total direct and indirect expenditure was Rs. 12,100 (US$ 1 = Rs 50) with the range of Rs. 0-54000. The largest component of total direct medical costs was in stage I (median Rs. 6530), total indirect costs (median Rs. 7500), and median total cost was Rs. 17,600. The total expenditures (median Rs. 13,100) were the highest in younger age group (<40). The median direct expenditure was higher in the subjects who visited private setup before coming to Hospital (Rs. 8250) than those who came directly (Rs. 4500). Conclusions: Cost of treatment for breast cancer depends on many factors, including the stages of the cancer, the woman's age, perhaps the costs of treatment, private hospital and insurance.

Estrogen, progesterone and HER2 receptor expression in breast tumors of patients, and their usage of HER2-targeted therapy, in a tertiary care centre in India.

Background: This study was undertaken to document the pattern of expression of estrogen (ER), progesterone (PR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) and the usage of HER2-targeted therapy in a large tertiary care hospital in India in the year 2008. Materials and Methods: The histopathology reports of all breast cancer patients registered in the hospital in 2008 were extracted from the electronic medical record system. All the cases were immunohistochemically evaluated for estrogen and progesterone receptor status (ER and PR), and c-erbB-2 protein (HER2) expression using standard immunoperoxidase method. The use of HER2-targeted therapies was evaluated by extracting relevant information from the database of the hospital pharmacy and case charts of patients enrolled in ongoing approved trials. Results: A total of 2001 new patients of invasive breast cancers with available pathology reports were registered in the hospital in the year 2008. ER and/or PR expression was positive in tumors of 1025 (51.2%) patients. HER2 3+ expression by immunohistochemistry (IHC) was found in 335 (16.7%) and HER2 2+ in 163 (8.1%). The triple negative phenotype was found in 596 (29.8%) patients. An estimated 441 patients were eligible to receive HER2-targeted therapy based on their HER2 status. Of these 38 (8.6%) patients received some form of HER2-targeted therapy; 20 patients (4.5%) as part of ongoing clinical trials and 18 (4.1%) as part of routine care. Conclusions: The overwhelming majority of patients eligible for HER2-targeted therapy in our institution are unable to receive it because of financial constraints and limited access to health insurance. There is a higher fraction of patients with the triple negative phenotype compared to the Western population.

Potential economic impact of the 21-gene expression assay on the treatment of breast cancer in brazil / Potencial impacto econômico do painel de expressão de 21 genes no tratamento adjuvante do câncer de mama no Brasil

OBJECTIVE: The 21-gene expression assay may support the decision regarding use of chemotherapy in early breast cancer. We sought to investigate the potential impact of incorporating the 21-gene expression assay into private practice in Brazil, from the perspective of third party payers. METHODS: We conducted a web-based survey with 30 (of a total of approximately 700) Brazilian medical oncologists, who were stratified by State according to the proportion of patients with breast cancer and private health insurance. We evaluated the possible treatment of first choice for patients with lymph-node-negative, estrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer, regardless of menopausal status. Interviewees were not aware of the objective of the study. Responses permitted a quantitative assessment of the care patterns regarding use of different chemotherapy regimens, type of premedication, use of growth factors, and use of intravenous antibiotics for febrile neutropenia. We calculated medication costs using the manufacturer's recommended prices. Other direct medical expenses, indirect medical costs, and non-medical costs were not included. RESULTS: Considering a hypothetical cohort of 100 patients without access to the 21-gene expression assay, the survey showed that 84 patients would receive chemotherapy. Reclassifying patient eligibility for chemotherapy according to the 21-gene expression assay would lower this number to 49. For a hypothetical cohort of 100 patients with access to the test, US$ 79,361.43 would be saved in main direct medical costs. Such results, however, would greatly vary according to tumor size: the 21-gene expression assay could increase direct medical costs in T1 tumors, and decrease costs in cases with T >2 cm. CONCLUSION: Considering the current price for the 21-gene expression assay in Brazil, our economic analysis suggests that such testing is an overall cost-saving, from the perspective of third party payers. Further, optimal ...

OBJETIVO: O índice de recorrência (IR), também conhecido como painel de 21 genes, pode apoiar decisões com relação ao uso de quimioterapia (QT) no câncer de mama precoce. Procuramos investigar o impacto potencial da incorporação do IR na prática privada no Brasil, a partir da perspectiva das fontes pagadoras. MÉTODOS: Conduzimos uma pesquisa com 30 oncologistas brasileiros (de um total de aproximadamente 700), que foram estratificados por Estado de acordo com a proporção de pacientes com câncer de mama e com cobertura pelo sistema de saúde suplementar. Avaliamos o tratamento de primeira escolha para pacientes com câncer de mama com axila negativa e expressão positiva do receptor de estrógeno, independente do estado menopausal. Os entrevistados não estavam cientes do objetivo do estudo. As respostas permitiram uma avaliação quantitativa dos padrões de cuidado, considerando o uso de diferentes regimes de QT, o tipo de pré-medicações, o uso de fatores de crescimento e o tratamento hospitalar da neutropenia febril. Calculamos o custo dos medicamentos usando o Brasíndice, e o custo do IR foi fixado em R$ 3.900,00 (MammaGene®). Outras despesas médicas diretas, custos médicos indiretos e custos não-médicos não foram considerados. RESULTADOS: Numa corte hipotética de 100 pacientes sem acesso ao teste de IR, 84 iriam receber quimioterapia. Reclassificando a elegibilidade das pacientes para QT de acordo com o IR, esse número cairia para 49. Para uma coorte hipotética de 100 pacientes com acesso ao IR, seriam economizados R$ 134.915,00 em despesas médicas diretas. CONCLUSÃO: Considerando o preço atual para avaliação do IR no Brasil, nossa análise econômica sugere que este teste economizaria custos, pela perspectiva das fontes pagadoras do setor privado. Além disso, o uso otimizado de recursos poderia requerer o emprego do painel de 21 genes de forma racional.

El costo de la atención médica del cáncer mamario: el caso del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social / The health care costs of breast cancer: the case of the Mexican Social Security Institute

OBJETIVO: Calcular el costo de atención de las pacientes con cáncer de mama tratadas en el Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: A través del Sistema de Información Médico Operativa del IMSS, se conformó una cohorte de pacientes con diagnóstico reciente en 2002 que recibió seguimiento hasta finales de 2006. Se identificó el uso de recursos y se le adjudicó el costo de atención del IMSS. RESULTADOS: Sólo 14 por ciento se diagnosticó en fase I y 48 por ciento en las fases III-IV. El costo de atención promedio por año-paciente se estimó en 110 459 pesos y para las mujeres diagnosticadas en 2002 la etapa I tuvo un costo de 74 522 pesos, comparado con 102 042 en la etapa II, 154 018 en la etapa III y 199 274 en la IV. CONCLUSIONES: El cáncer mamario representa un presupuesto significativo en el IMSS y entre más tardía es la etapa de detección, más altos resultan los costos económicos por año-paciente y más baja la probabilidad de sobrevida a cinco años.

OBJECTIVE: We studied the cost of health care for women with breast cancer treated at the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS, per its abbreviation in Spanish). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Using the Medical and Operative Information Systems of the IMSS, we constructed a cohort of patients diagnosed in 2002 and followed these patients to the end of 2006, identifying the use of resources and imputing the IMSS-specific cost structure. RESULTS: Only 14 percent of women were diagnosed in stage 1 and 48 percent were diagnosed in stages III-IV. The average cost of their medical care per patient-year was $MX110,459. Costs for stage 1 were $MX74,522 compared to $102,042 for stage II, and were $MX154,018 for stage III and $MX199,274 for stage IV. CONCLUSIONS: Breast cancer accounts for a significant part of the IMSS health budget. Later stage at diagnosis is associated with higher economic costs per patient-year of treatment and lower probability of five-year survival.

Costo-efectividad de políticas para el tamizaje de cáncer de mama en México / Cost-effectiveness of breast cancer screening policies in Mexico

OBJETIVO: Generar información de costo-efectividad para optimizar las políticas para el cáncer de mama (CaMa) en México. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se construyó un modelo Markov que incorpora cuatro procesos interrelacionados del CaMa: la evolución natural, la detección con mamografía, el tratamiento y la dinámica de mortalidad por otras causas, a partir del cual se modelaron 13 estrategias. RESULTADOS: Las estrategias (edad de inicio, porcentaje de cobertura, periodicidad en años)= (48, 25, 2), (40, 50, 2) y (40, 50, 1) representan la ruta óptima de expansión del programa, con un costo por año de vida ganado de 75.3, 116.4 y 171.1 (miles de pesos), respectivamente. CONCLUSIONES: Las estrategias sobre la vía óptima de expansión del programa producen una razón de costo por año de vida ganado menor a dos veces el PIB per cápita, por lo que se encuentran dentro de lo que se considera una intervención costo-efectiva según los criterios de la OMS.

OBJECTIVE: Generate cost-effectiveness information to allow policy makers optimize breast cancer (BC) policy in Mexico. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We constructed a Markov model that incorporates four interrelated processes of the disease: the natural history; detection using mammography; treatment; and other competing-causes mortality, according to which 13 different strategies were modeled. RESULTS: Strategies (starting age, percent of coverage, frequency in years)= (48, 25, 2), (40, 50, 2) and (40, 50, 1) constituted the optimal method for expanding the BC program, yielding 75.3, 116.4 and 171.1 thousand pesos per life-year saved, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The strategies included in the optimal method for expanding the program produce a cost per life-year saved of less than two times the GNP per capita and hence are cost-effective according to WHO Commission on Macroeconomics and Health criteria.

Aspectos clínico-econômicos da quimioterapia adjuvante no câncer de mama HER-2 positivo / Clinical and economic issues in adjuvant chemotherapy for HER-2 positive breast cancer

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o impacto clínico e os custos do tratamento adjuvante para câncer de mama com superexpressão do receptor 2 do Fator de Crescimento Epidérmico (HER-2). MÉTODOS: Foram obtidas medidas de eficácia (sobrevida livre de doença em 3 anos) dos ensaios de fase III com trastuzumabe para o câncer de mama HER-2 positivo: um estudo finlandês (FinHER), dois americanos (National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project - NSAPB-31 e North Central Cancer Treatment Group N9831) e dois multinacionais (Herceptin Adjuvant, HERA e Breast Cancer International Research Group, BCIRG-006), e calculadas medidas de impacto clínico: redução de risco e número necessário para tratar (NNT). Foram estimados os custos com medicamentos antineoplásicos nestes diferentes regimes terapêuticos. RESULTADOS: A redução absoluta de risco com uso do trastuzumabe foi maior no estudo FinHER (11,7 por cento; IC 95 por cento: 2,2 por cento a 21,2 por cento). O NNT no FinHER foi 8 (IC 95 por cento: 3 a 28), 8 (IC 95 por cento: 7 a 11) no NSABP-31/N9831, 12 (IC 95 por cento: 9 a 18) no HERA, 14 (IC 95 por cento: 11 a 24) no BCIRG/com antraciclinas e 17 (IC 95 por cento: 12 a 34) no BCIRG/sem antraciclinas. O custo para evitar um caso de recidiva seria R$ 418.285,44 com o regime FinHER, R$ 1.716.789,44 no NSABP-31/N9831, R$ 2.481.891,58 no HERA, R$ 2.963.634,62 no BCIRG/com antraciclinas e R$ 3.930.520,43 no BCIRG/sem antraciclinas. CONCLUSÃO: Restringir o uso do trastuzumabe à fase inicial de quimioterapia adjuvante (FinHER) permite beneficiar, do ponto de vista econômico, quatro a nove vezes mais pacientes que a monoterapia adjuvante prolongada como usada nos demais protocolos.

PURPOSE: To examine efficacy figures and drug expenditure for adjuvant chemotherapy in human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2) positive breast cancer, in the Brazilian supplemental health insurance market. METHODS: We obtained efficacy data (disease free survival at 3-years) and drug cost estimate for current adjuvant strategies in HER-2 positive breast cancer: Finland Herceptin (FinHER), National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSAPB-31), North Central Cancer Treatment Group (N9831), Herceptin Adjuvant (HERA) and Breast Cancer International Research Group (BCIRG-006). We estimated clinical impact measures - number needed to treat (NNT) and absolute risk reduction (ARR) - and total drug cost by protocol to avoid one single cancer recurrence. RESULTS: The largest ARR was 11.7 percent (95 percent CI: 2.2 percent to 21.2 percent) in the FinHER study, and the smallest in the nonanthracycline arm of the BCIRG trial, 4.9 percent (95 percent CI: 1.8 percent to 8.1 percent). The NNT was 8 (95 percent CI: 3 to 28) in the FinHER, 8 (95 percent CI: 7 to 11) in the NSABP-31/N9831, 12 (95 percent CI: 9 to 18) in the HERA, 14 (95 percent CI: 11 to 24) in the BCIRG/Anthracycline, and 17 (CI 95 percent CI: 12 to 34) in the BCIRG/Nonanthracycline. Drug cost to avoid one single cancer recurrence would be R$ 418,285.44 with the FinHER regimen, R$ 1,716,789.44 with the NSABP-31/N9831, R$ 2,481,891.58 with the HERA, R$ 2,963,634.62 with the BCIRG/Anthracicline, and R$ 3,930,520.43 with the BCIRG/Nonanthracycline (exchange rate: R$ 1.00 = USD 0.56). CONCLUSION: From an economic viewpoint, four to seven times more patients could benefit by using a short-course of trastuzumab at the initial adjuvant chemotherapy cycles (FinHER regimen) than by the prolonged trastuzumab administration as used in other adjuvant schedules.