Cost-effectiveness of a community-based physical activity programme for adults (Be Active) in the UK: an economic analysis within a natural experiment. Issue 3 (13th July 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Frew, Emma J; Bhatti, Mobeen; Win, Khine; Sitch, Alice; Lyon, Anna; Pallan, Miranda; Adab, Peymane
• Is Part Of: British journal of sports medicine. Volume 48:Issue 3(2014)
• Page Start: 207
• Page End: 212
• Publication Date: 2012-07-13
• Subjects: Sports medicine -- Periodicals; 617.1027
• DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2012-091202
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-3674

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: To determine the cost-effectiveness of a physical activity programme (Be Active) aimed at city-dwelling adults living in Birmingham, UK. Methods: Very little is known about the cost-effectiveness of public health programmes to improve city-wide physical activity rates. This paper presents a cost-effectiveness analysis that compares a physical activity intervention (Be Active) with no intervention (usual care) using an economic model to quantify the reduction in disease risk over a lifetime. Metabolic equivalent minutes achieved per week, quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) gained and healthcare costs were all included as the main outcome measures in the model. A cost-benefit analysis was also conducted using 'willingness-to-pay' as a measure of value. Results: Under base-case assumptions—that is, assuming that the benefits of increased physical activity are sustained over 5 years, participation in the Be Active programme increased quality-adjusted life expectancy by 0.06 years, at an expected discounted cost of £3552, and thus the cost-effectiveness of Be Active is £400 per QALY. When the start-up costs of the programme are removed from the economic model, the cost-effectiveness is further improved to £16 per QALY. The societal value placed on the Be Active programme was greater than the operation cost therefore the Be Active physical activity intervention results in a net benefit to society. Conclusions: Participation in Be Active appeared to be cost-effective and cost-beneficial. These results support the use of Be Active as part of a public health programme to improve physical activity levels within the Birmingham-wide population.