Socioeconomic costs incurred by parents of children with inflammatory bowel diseases.

UNLABELLED: The aim of this study was to assess the socio-economic burden on families of children diagnosed with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), particularly ulcerative colitis (UC), and Crohn's disease (CD). The study was conducted at the 2nd Clinic of Paediatrics, Gastroenterology and Nutrition of Wroclaw Medical University. Anonymous questionnaires were completed by parents of paediatric IBD patients. The survey collected demographic, socio-economic, and treatment-related data. The study identified both material and non-material costs associated with IBD care. These included frequent private medical visits, medication, diet modifications, and transportation. Average monthly travel expenses were PLN 215.9 for UC and PLN 302.3 for CD (PLN = Polish zloty, 1 PLN = 0.25 euro). Limited access to paediatric gastroenterologists, especially in remote areas, led many families to seek private care, with associated monthly costs averaging PLN 312.3 for UC and PLN 513.3 for CD. Additionally, parents reported frequent work absences due to caregiving responsibilities, further impacting income and quality of life.

CONCLUSION

Childhood IBD imposes a considerable financial and psychosocial burden on families. The findings underscore the need for improved access to public healthcare services and financial support mechanisms to reduce the strain on affected families.

WHAT IS KNOWN: • Families of children with IBD (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease) face significant costs related to medical care and lifestyle changes. • Limited access to specialised paediatric gastroenterologists and frequent absences from work add to the overall family burden.

WHAT IS NEW: • This study quantifies the monthly out-of-pocket travel and private care costs for paediatric IBD in Poland (PLN 215.9-513.3), previously rarely documented. • The findings highlight significant non-material impacts, such as caregiver work absences, further reducing family quality of life.