Cost-Benefit Analysis Indicates the Positive Economic Benefits of the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program Related to Chronic Disease Prevention

Abstract

Objective To provide an estimated cost-benefit ratio for the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP), based on potential prevention of diet-related chronic diseases and conditions. Design A retrospective cost-benefit study using demographic, food/nutrient intake, and food-related behavioral data previously collected on program participants by trained paraprofessionals, before and after an intervention. Actual costs of implementing EFNEP for 1 year (1996) were also used. Subjects/Settings 3100 female and male adults who had participated in the Virginia EFNEP during 1996. Intervention Prior participation in 6 to 12 food/nutrition education lessons with subsequent graduation from EFNEP. Main Outcome Measures Cost-benefit ratios for EFNEP, based on original assumptions and subsequent sensitivity analyses. Statistical Analysis Program implementation costs were compiled and compared with monetized benefits of disease prevention to produce benefit-to-cost ratios. Excel and SPSS computer programs were used to compute cost-benefit ratios based on standard procedures used in the field of economics. Results The initial benefit-to-cost ratio was $10.64/$1.00, with subsequent sensitivity analyses producing ratios ranging from $2.66/1.00 to $17.04/1.00. Implications The results of EFNEP intervention translate into a positive cost-benefit based on potential prevention of diet-related chronic diseases and conditions. Thus, EFNEP is a good use of federal tax dollars.