Cost-effectiveness of DNA testing for Lynch syndrome for colorectal cancer patients in Switzerland

Abstract Purpose To estimate the cost-effectiveness of genetic testing for Lynch syndrome among newly diagnosed patients with colorectal cancer and targeted testing for their relatives in Switzerland. Methods We integrated decision tree and Markov model to calculate incremental costs per quality adjusted life-year saved for universal genetic testing for Lynch syndrome relative to using preliminary tumor tests (immunohistochemistry or microsatellite instability) followed by DNA sequencing test for patients with colorectal cancer. Results The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of the proposed strategy using universal genetic testing for Lynch syndrome with systematic CASCADE testing of their relatives is CHF 65,058 per QALY saved, which is cost-effective in Swiss settings where cost-effectiveness threshold is CHF 100,000 per QALY saved. The gained utility is 361,358 QALYs saved. Sensitivity analysis demonstrated cost-effectiveness of the proposed strategies in most of the scenarios. Conclusions The overall effectiveness of the universal genetic testing is greatly dependent on willingness of patients and relatives to be tested and compliance with the increased surveillance. Therefore, close cooperation across different stakeholders such as family doctors, oncologists, genetic clinicians, and laboratories is crucial to encourage and educate patients about the importance of the LS screening. Key messages Universal genetic testing for Lynch syndrome for all patients with colorectal caner is cost-effective in Swiss settings. Close cooperation across all stakeholders such as family doctors, oncologists, genetic clinicians, and laboratories is crucial to encourage and educate patients about the importance of the LS testing.