The role of demographic and epidemiologic transitions on growing health expenditures in Latin America and the Caribbean: a descriptive study

Background: Many countries in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) have undergone significant economic, demographic, and epidemiological changes. We examined the role of these factors on the growth of health expenditures in several LAC countries. Methods: Demographic data, disease prevalence, and proportion of current health expenditure (CHE) per capita, by expenditure type, were obtained for several LAC countries. Health expenditure matrices were created for the years 2018 or 2019, disaggregated by age group and ICD-10 Chapter, for seven index countries (Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, Peru, and Trinidad and Tobago). Findings: Uruguay has largest population over 70 years (11%, n = 378,501), while Honduras has lowest (2.3%, n = 236,783). Barbados and Chile have the greatest proportion of total DALYs due to chronic diseases (>80%), while Bolivia and Guatemala have the lowest (60%). Per capita CHE is lowest in Honduras (<$500) and highest in Panama ($2500). CHE is highest among the 85+ age group, and for circulatory, respiratory, and digestive diseases. Interpretation: Important differences were observed in health care spending by disease category and age group. Given the ongoing demographic and epidemiological transitions in LAC, health care spending in the area is expected to increase. Funding: This study was funded by the Inter-American Development Bank.