PUBLISHER: Fairfield Market Research | PRODUCT CODE: 1420356
PUBLISHER: Fairfield Market Research | PRODUCT CODE: 1420356
The global intermittent catheters market is on a trajectory of steady growth, as indicated by a recent study conducted by Fairfield Market Research. In 2023, the market was valued at US$ 1.8 billion, and it is anticipated to maintain a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.8% over the next decade, reaching an estimated valuation of approximately US$ 2.5 billion by the end of 2031.
Intermittent catheters serve as a crucial medical device for patients requiring effective urine drainage or collection. This method is especially essential for individuals with spinal cord injuries and neurogenic bladder problems, allowing them to efficiently manage their bladder functions.
The increasing prevalence of urinary incontinence is expected to drive the demand for intermittent catheters. Urinary incontinence, a condition that affects bladder control and leads to involuntary urine leakage, is becoming more prevalent. It affects a broad spectrum of the population, including the elderly, who commonly use intermittent catheters for various medical conditions such as urine retention, incontinence, pressure ulcers, and cancer.
The global geriatric population, aged 65 and older, is growing significantly. The United Nations predicts that by 2050, this demographic will double to 1.5 billion people. As older individuals require continuous care monitoring, healthcare professionals often use intermittent catheters to ease their care burdens, even in post-surgical situations.
Additionally, the rising incidence of bladder control problems and urinary-related issues in countries like the U.S., Australia, and the U.K. is driving market growth. For example, in Australia, urinary incontinence affects 1 in 3 women, 1 in 10 men, and 1 in 5 children, according to the Continence Foundation of Australia.
Growing awareness among physicians and patients about the benefits of catheterization is expected to further boost demand for intermittent catheters in the coming years. Medical professionals and patients alike are recognizing the advantages of this medical solution, contributing to market growth.
Manufacturers of intermittent catheters have a substantial opportunity to address the unmet needs of a large patient pool in developing regions. In areas like Asia Pacific and Latin America, there is significant room for growth, as the penetration of urinary catheter use remains low compared to industrialized regions. Rising healthcare spending, increased awareness among patients and physicians, and technological advancements are expected to create significant growth prospects in developing nations such as China, Russia, and India.
To address the growing demand for safer and more efficient catheters, companies are investing in Research and Development (R&D) initiatives to produce biocompatible urinary catheters. Materials like silicone, known for their resistance to chemicals and temperature insensitivity, are becoming more prevalent in catheter production. Silicone catheters reduce the risk of complications such as trigonitis, meatitis, and urethritis compared to traditional latex catheters. Silicone catheters also have the advantage of longer usability, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Despite its promising growth, the intermittent catheters market faces challenges related to the increasing incidence of urinary tract infections associated with catheter use. Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) pose a significant challenge for healthcare professionals and institutions. For instance, over 80% of catheter CAUTIs are attributed to catheterizations using Foley or indwelling urinary catheters, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the U.S.
The availability of disposable incontinence products, such as adult diapers and pull-on absorbent trousers, serves as a substitute for external catheters, further affecting market growth. Governments in countries like the U.S., U.K., and Australia offer reimbursement programs for disposable incontinence products, potentially hampering the intermittent catheters market during the forecast period.
Intermittent catheter manufacturers are increasingly focusing on the U.S. market, driven by several key factors. The United States dominated the North American intermittent catheter market in 2023. The rising demand for these medical devices in the U.S. can be attributed to the growing number of medical device and surgical instrument companies in the country. Moreover, improvements in quality control systems within the industrial sector have contributed to the surge in demand. Additionally, the prevalence of urinary incontinence in the U.S. is a significant driver for intermittent catheter demand, with millions of adult Americans affected, particularly women.
Germany has witnessed an increasing demand for intermittent catheters, holding a significant share of the European market in 2023. This demand is primarily linked to the country's growing geriatric population. As per World Bank data, a substantial percentage of the German population was 65 years and older in 2020, leading to a higher need for intermittent catheters. Furthermore, ongoing research studies aimed at providing safer alternatives for catheterization are also contributing to the attractiveness of the German market for intermittent catheters.
Japan is considered a lucrative market for intermittent catheter suppliers, with a notable market share in East Asia in 2023. The presence of numerous hospitals and a high availability of hospital beds per 1,000 people drive the demand for intermittent catheters. Japan's healthcare sector is well-established, making it a prominent market for suppliers.
Companies manufacturing intermittent catheters are actively seeking ways to enhance their market positions through partnerships, acquisitions, collaborations, and approvals with both existing and emerging market players.