Cost effectiveness analysis of radon remediation programmes

Questions have been raised about the economic implications of the regulations governing radon gas level identification and remediation in buildings. Attempts to answer the economic questions related to proposed policy have been varied and criticised for lack of scope and comparability. It is imperative therefore that a general model for the evaluation of radon remediation programmes is adopted by participating interests to ensure the comparability and usefulness of ratios in decision making. This paper presents a general guideline for the use of cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) as an economic appraisal tool in the evaluation of radon reduction and prevention programmes. The data requirements
for a CEA of radon remediation programmes, include both costs and outcomes. These components are discussed in the materials and methods with consideration of the following factors: programme objectives, comparator choice, perspective, time horizon, discounting, uncertainty, and final ratios. These must be kept in mind at all stages of programme development in order that continuing and meaningful evaluation of radon remediation programmes will be possible. By evaluating the radon remediation programme in similar terms with other health interventions (lung cancer prevention
interventions), comparisons can be made based on outcomes and costs per life year gained.