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Projected Burden of Bloodstream Infections and the Impact of Molecular Rapid Diagnostic Testing in England and the United States (2025-2029)

Health & Medicine

Key takeaway

Projected rise in deadly blood infections, but new rapid tests could help reduce burden and improve outcomes for patients in England and the US.

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Quick Explainer

This study projected the future burden of bloodstream infections in England and the United States, and estimated the potential impact of increased use of molecular rapid diagnostic tests (mRDTs). By combining historical data on infection rates with demographic projections, the researchers modeled the expected number of cases and associated costs over the next five years. The analysis suggests that expanded mRDT use could substantially reduce this burden by saving thousands of lives and decreasing healthcare expenditures, providing a compelling rationale to drive increased adoption of this diagnostic approach.

Deep Dive

Technical Deep Dive: Projected Burden of Bloodstream Infections and the Impact of Molecular Rapid Diagnostic Testing

Overview

This study aimed to project the future burden of bloodstream infections (BSIs) in England and the United States from 2025-2029, and to estimate the potential impact of increased use of molecular rapid diagnostic tests (mRDTs) on reducing BSI-associated costs and mortality.

Problem & Context

  • BSI incidence has been increasing over time, indicating a growing public health concern.
  • Existing evidence on the cost-effectiveness of mRDTs suggests they could improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare expenditures.

Methodology

  • Used national data on BSI incidence by age and sex for England (2017) and the US (Minnesota, 2003-2005).
  • Combined this historical data with demographic projections to estimate future BSI incidence from 2025-2029.
  • Incorporated published data on costs and mortality associated with BSI, depending on the method of pathogen identification.
  • Used this information to estimate the potential lives saved and cost impact of expanded mRDT use in England and the US.

Results

  • Projected BSI cases from 2025-2029:
    • England: 1.02 million
    • US: 6.24 million
  • Projected associated costs:
    • England: £14.6 million
    • US: $221 million
  • Expanded mRDT use could save:
    • 2,219 lives in England
    • 7,554 lives in the US
  • Expanded mRDT use could reduce healthcare expenditures in both countries.

Interpretation

The analysis suggests a compelling case to increase uptake of mRDTs, as this could significantly reduce the burden of BSIs in both England and the US by saving thousands of lives and decreasing healthcare costs.

Limitations & Uncertainties

  • The analysis relied on historical BSI incidence data that may not fully reflect future trends.
  • There was limited US data available, so the analysis used data from Minnesota as a proxy for the entire country.
  • The costs and mortality impacts associated with BSI identification methods were based on published literature, which may not fully capture regional differences.

What Comes Next

This analysis provides a strong rationale for further research and policy efforts to expand the use of mRDTs and improve the diagnosis and management of BSIs. Future work could refine the projections with more comprehensive national-level data and evaluate the specific implementation strategies needed to drive increased mRDT adoption.

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