Burden of Illness – Osteoporosis and Its Treatment Gap in the Czech Republic

This bachelor thesis focuses on the analysis of the Burden of Illness in the case of osteoporosis in the Czech Republic, with particular emphasis on the recently implemented early detection program using densitometric screening. The aim of the thesis was to quantify the socioeconomic impact of the disease and to evaluate the effectiveness of the screening in terms of costs, patient detection, and subsequent treatment. The quantitative part of the research analyzed data from the years 2022–2024 regarding the number of screened patients, costs of pharmaceuticals in the M05 group, and the frequency of visits to osteological ambulances. The qualitative part was based on semi-structured interviews with twelve gynecologists, whose statements revealed barriers in interdisciplinary cooperation, insufficient motivation for further education, and challenges in financing care for patients with osteoporosis. The results indicate that despite a significant increase in diagnostic procedures, the growth in treatment expenditures does not correspond to the number of newly diagnosed cases, suggesting systemic deficiencies in post-diagnostic care. The thesis thus highlights the need for a more comprehensive screening program and better integration between primary care and specialized professionals.