Direct Medical Costs in the Treatment of Prostate Cancer at Friendship Hospital in the Period of 2020-2025

Abstract

Introduction: Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, ranking second worldwide in terms of new cases with more than 1,4 million cases according to GLOBOCAN 2022. In Vietnam, although the age-standardized rate remains low, the disease still has a high number of cases and shows an increasing trend over time. This study aimed to analyze the direct medical costs of prostate cancer treatment at Friendship Hospital from 2020 to 2025. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 94 patients, with a total of 1.392 treatment sessions at Huu Nghi Hospital from 2020 to 2025. Results: The average annual direct medical costs for stages II, III, and IV were 38.828.950 VND, 46.577.947 VND and 69.659.116 VND, respectively, increasing with disease severity. Hormone therapy and surgery accounted for the largest cost components, with hormone therapy costs rising markedly in advanced stages. Conclusion: Most prostate cancer patients were diagnosed at late stages. Treatment costs increased with disease progression, with hormone therapy and surgery as the main cost drivers. Strengthening screening and early detection is necessary to reduce the financial burden on both the healthcare system and patients.