The costs and benefits of screening for congenital hypothyroidism in Wisconsin

Abstract

A comprehensive benefit‐cost analysis of the screening program to detect newborns with congenital hypothyroidism in Wisconsin is presented. Congenital hypothyroidism, if left undetected and untreated at an early age, can have serious irreversible effects on the growth and development of the brain. The monetary costs of the detection and treatment program for congenital hypothyroidism were compared with the projected benefits (avoided costs) that result from the prevention of the mental retardation associated with the disorder. Future costs and benefits were determined using a 4 per cent, 7 per cent, and 10 per cent rate of discount. Net benefits (benefits minus costs) for detecting and treating one individual with congenital hypothyroidism were approximately $98,200 ($141,700 ‐ $43,500) using the 7 per cent rate of discount. Net benefits for detecting the 13 individuals with congenital hypothyroidism in 1981–1982 totaled $1,277,000.