Research Symposium

BIO

Tristan Sambrano is a first-generation Presidential Scholar at Florida State University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. Originally from Homestead, Florida, he is passionate about healthcare and improving patient outcomes through science and education. He has developed strong interests in pharmacology and the role medications play in managing chronic conditions and enhancing quality of life. At Florida State University, Tristan is actively involved in student leadership and health education initiatives, where he enjoys working with peers to promote wellness and informed decision-making. These experiences have strengthened his commitment to patient-centered care and effective communication in healthcare settings. He plans to pursue a career in pharmacy, where he hopes to make a meaningful impact by providing accessible, knowledgeable, and compassionate care.

The Cost of Care: Eosinophilic Esophagitis in the U.S.

Abstract

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory disease of the esophagus that requires long-term management and repeated medical interventions. Although its clinical features are well documented, less is known about its economic impact. This study examines how EoE contributes to annual healthcare expenditures in the United States and evaluates whether individuals with EoE incur higher costs compared to those without the condition.

A structured literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar to identify U.S.-based studies published from 2010 to present. MeSH terms were applied within PubMed to refine searches, combining “eosinophilic esophagitis” with economic keywords such as cost, healthcare utilization, and financial burden. Articles were screened based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, and both qualitative and quantitative findings—including study design, cost estimates, utilization measures, limitations, and key takeaways—were analyzed. Data were organized using Mendeley as a citation management tool.

Findings indicate that individuals with EoE consistently experience higher healthcare expenditures than those without the condition. Annual per-patient costs ranged from approximately $3,000 to over $10,000, with national cost estimates between $500 million and $1.36 billion. Increased costs were largely driven by outpatient visits, endoscopic procedures, medications, and specialist care, reflecting the chronic and resource-intensive nature of the disease.

Overall, EoE represents a significant and growing economic burden in the U.S. healthcare system. These findings contribute to a clearer understanding of the financial impact of EoE and highlight the need for improved management strategies and cost-effective care approaches.

Keywords: Eosinophilic Esophagitis, Economic Burden, Healthcare Costs, Healthcare Utilization, Chronic Disease