title: Cost-effectiveness of internet-based cognitive behavior therapy for irritable bowel syndrome: results from a randomized controlled trial.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is highly prevalent and is associated with a substantial economic burden. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective in treating IBS. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of a new treatment alternative, internet-delivered CBT based on exposure and mindfulness exercises.
  
  
  METHODS
  Participants (N = 85) with IBS were recruited through self-referral and were assessed via a telephone interview and self-report measures on the internet. Participants were randomized to internet-delivered CBT or to a discussion forum. Economic data was assessed at pre-, post- and at 3-month and 1 year follow-up.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Significant cost reductions were found for the treatment group at $16,806 per successfully treated case. The cost reductions were mainly driven by reduced work loss in the treatment group. Results were sustained at 3-month and 1 year follow-up.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Internet-delivered CBT appears to generate health gains in IBS treatment and is associated with cost-savings from a societal perspective.
authors.affiliation: Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Stockholm Center for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden. erik.m.andersson@ki.se
authors.forename: Erik
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Andersson
authors.forename: Brjánn
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Ljótsson
authors.forename: Filip
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Smit
authors.forename: Björn
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Paxling
authors.forename: Erik
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Hedman
authors.forename: Nils
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Lindefors
authors.forename: Gerhard
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Andersson
authors.forename: Christian
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Rück
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000191:economics* / Q000379:methods; D017281:Cost of Illness; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D004651:Employment / Q000191:economics; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D043183:Irritable Bowel Syndrome / Q000191:economics / Q000628:therapy*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D055815:Young Adult