RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: Worldwide, genital warts, caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common, sexually transmitted disease. The overall disease management strategy for genital warts should be determined not only by the prevalence, but also by the impact of the disease on individuals and society. The purpose of this study was therefore to investigate the epidemiological, economic and quality of life (QoL) burden of genital warts. METHODS: A systematic literature review was conducted on the epidemiology, QoL and management cost of genital warts in the USA, UK and France, based on studies published between 1998 and 2008. Due to scarcity of data, all studies reporting standardized QoL assessments among patients with genital warts were utilized, regardless of country of origin. Original studies were preferred over information cited in review articles. RESULTS: Data from three countries suggest that genital warts occur in 0.06-0.23% of the population each year. Despite the fact that spontaneous remissions occur frequently (up to 40%), patients often prefer immediate treatment. While treatment can be costly in absolute terms (163-510 per treatment episode), these costs are lower compared with other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Modest reductions in QoL have been noted, which may be mitigated through adequate patient education and support. CONCLUSIONS: While genital warts are an inconvenience for many patients, the occurrence may be lower than often quoted in the literature, and the economic burden on society is less than for other prominent STIs. However, concerted efforts to establish improved data collection and surveillance systems are needed in order to accurately define the burden of genital warts on individuals and society.
