Model-Based Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Routine Omega-3 Testing and Targeted Supplementation to Reduce Early Preterm Birth in Australia Compared with Current Practice
Abstract
Background: Preterm birth remains a leading cause of newborn death, disability, and long-term health challenges globally, with a substantial impact on families, the health system, and society. Omega-3 supplementation in women with low omega-3 status in early pregnancy has been shown to reduce the risk of preterm birth, particularly early preterm birth (<34 weeks of gestation). The cost implications of incorporating omega-3 testing and targeted supplementation into routine antenatal care to reduce early preterm birth in Australia are unclear.
Methods: A decision analytic model was developed using Australian epidemiological, clinical, and cost data to compare routine omega-3 testing and targeted supplementation with current practice. The model predicted the number of early preterm births prevented and associated cost savings over an 18-year time horizon. Deterministic sensitivity analyses were conducted to examine uncertainty in key model inputs.
Results: Among 289,195 singleton pregnancies in 2022, an estimated 17.5% of women would have low omega-3 status and be eligible for supplementation. Making conservative assumptions, the model predicted that, relative to current practice, omega-3 testing and supplementation would be a dominant strategy, preventing 640 early preterm births, with projected savings of $26.1 million in direct healthcare costs. Sensitivity analyses indicated that the results were robust across most scenarios and identified the treatment effect estimate as…
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