Disability-adjusted life years associated with liver-related complications among patients with Delta viral infection in Republic of Moldova

Abstract

Introduction. Disability-adjusted life years (DALY) is a multidimensional measure used to quantify specific tasks of the disease. Chronic liver disease attributed to hepatitis Delta virus (HDV) is one of the major causes that contribute to morbidity and mortality in our country. The DALY estimate in HDV-induced liver disease has the potential to highlight both fatal and nonfatal outcomes of the disease and thus, help in policy making and allocation of health resources. Material and methods. This was an analytical prognostic study conducted in the 2021–2024 period, with the enrollment of 104 patients with HDV-induced liver disease. YLL was predictively rated using Child-Pugh’s estimate of the remaining years of life. The chronic liver disease questionnaire was used to evaluate patients’ disabilities along with the disability weights of the Global Burden of Disease study, calculating YLD. The impact of DALY was interpreted according to the patient’s safety indicators. Results. 104 patients with HDV, originating in different areas of the country, were evaluated, with an average age of 56 ±4.5 years. Substantial YLD losses caused by HDV were mainly reported in working class. The greatest losses of YLD and DALY were caused by cirrhosis of the liver, followed by hepatocellular carcinoma. A great rate of mortality attributed to HDV was seen in the 45-59 and 60-74 age group. A total of 739.1 YLL in male gender and 719.5 in females were recorded for cirrhosis. Overall, men attest a DALY value of 1358.44 total/29.53 per person, and women registered – 1477.3total /25.47 per person. Conclusions. Chronic liver disease attributed to HDV is a medical challenge in Republic of Moldova. Loading the national medical system with serious and overwhelmed patients, make the DALY calculation approach a priority setting.