Gender inequities in the economic burden of anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, migraine, and rheumatoid arthritis in Mexico, 2005-2021.

Anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, migraine, and rheumatoid arthritis significantly impact health. These conditions lead to disability, recurrent care needs, and productivity losses. In Mexico, women are disproportionately affected by these disorders. However, their economic burden lacks comprehensive quantification from a gender perspective. This study estimates the economic impact of these conditions in adults aged 20 and older from 2005 to 2021. A cost-of-illness analysis was conducted using various valuation methods. Migraine showed the highest prevalence, but depressive disorders had the highest direct costs at Int$310.5 billion. Indirect costs reached Int$106.8 billion using the Human Capital Approach. Women experienced a greater burden than men across all conditions. They faced 2.2 times higher indirect costs for migraine. The findings highlight the need for gender-responsive health policies to address these disparities effectively. Improving care and financial protection can reduce disability and economic consequences in Mexico. Clinical relevance: This research highlights the significant economic burden of migraine on women, emphasizing the need for gender-sensitive healthcare policies to address these disparities effectively.