Life years at risk: a population health measure from a prevention perspective.
This paper aims to present life years at risk (LYAR), a new measure of population health needs for primary, secondary and tertiary prevention, which classifies health outcomes by care type and distinguishes between positive and negative outcomes. It is determined by the probability of ill-health event, population size and life years lost, based on expected incidence, prevalence and mortality. The LYAR consists of two components: the observed LYAR, available using disability adjusted life years, and the avoided LYAR. Three examples are given to illustrate the calculation and application of the measure. The advantages, disadvantages and policy implications are also discussed.
Zhao
Yuejen
Y
Institute of Advanced Studies, Charles Darwin University, Darwin NT 0909, Australia. yuejen.zhao@nt.gov.au
Malyon
Rosalyn
R
D005260:Female; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006305:Health Status Indicators; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011159:Population Surveillance