Glaucoma Drainage Devices Market Trends

Market Driver - Rising Global Prevalence of Glaucoma Encourages Market Growth.

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness across the world. As per estimates by glaucoma research organizations, over 100 million people are affected by glaucoma globally and this number is projected to increase substantially in the coming years mainly due to rapid growth of aging population. Older age is one of the primary risk factors for glaucoma as chances of developing the disease increases significantly after the age of 60 years. With improvements in healthcare and life expectancy, the worldwide population aged over 60 years is growing at an unprecedented rate and this demographic transition is likely to significantly drive up the number of glaucoma cases globally.

Moreover, increasing focus of vision related non-profit organizations and eye care programs in underdeveloped areas is also making glaucoma management more accessible to general population. As more people get screened and treated for glaucoma, awareness about glaucoma drainage devices is anticipated to rise substantially.

Even countries with well-established healthcare systems have witnessed surge in glaucoma burden year after year. For example, organizations in United States have estimated that over three million American adults currently have glaucoma and this figure is projected to double by 2050. Rapid expansion of geriatric population base along with growing health consciousness is driving higher rate of glaucoma screening in USA which in turn is leading to identification of more number of existing glaucoma cases. Similar patterns are observed across major markets of Europe and Japan as well. As more patients are detected and treated for glaucoma, the glaucoma drainage devices market is expected to grow in direct correlation with rising disease prevalence worldwide.

Market Driver- Increasing prevalence of lifestyle disorders like diabetes and hypertension

Diabetes and high blood pressure are highly prevalent metabolic disorders nowadays mainly due to sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy dietary patterns common in modern urban societies. Many studies have proved these lifestyle conditions significantly increase the risk of developing glaucoma as well. Diabetes is known to cause nerve damage in eyes leading to vision problems and high blood pressure puts additional strain on eyes that may damage the optic nerve over time.

Currently, worldwide prevalence of diabetes and hypertension has reached epidemic proportions affecting millions of individuals across all age groups. As per latest international surveys, over 500 million adults globally have diabetes and this figure is projected to rise over 600 million in next few years. Similarly, nationwide surveys indicate nearly 1.3 billion people suffer from hypertension worldwide. Alarmed by spreading of non-communicable diseases, health organizations are aggressively working to create awareness and manage these lifestyle conditions more effectively. As a result of intensive screening and treatment programs, many previously undiagnosed cases are being identified now.

Market Challenge - Complications Associated with the Devices Limits the Market Growth.

One of the key challenges faced by the glaucoma drainage devices market is the complications associated with the implantation of these devices. Glaucoma drainage devices are implanted surgically, often through a multi-step procedure that involves making an incision in the eye and placing a silicone tube to drain the aqueous humor from the anterior chamber to a drainage site under the conjunctiva or episclera. Such invasive procedures carry risks of complications. Some common complications associated with glaucoma drainage devices include hypotony (abnormally low intraocular pressure) in the early post-operative period, tube and plate exposure and erosions, infection, bleeding, malpositioning of the tube, and failure of aqueous flow leading to inadequate pressure control. The occurrence of such complications can negatively impact the treatment outcomes and success rates. They may also lead to additional surgeries and treatment costs. Managing and reducing the risk of device-related complications remains a key challenge for manufacturers and surgeons.

Market Opportunity: Growing Geriatric Population and Demand for Minimally Invasive Devices

The growing geriatric population globally is driving the demand for effective glaucoma treatment options. As per estimates, the number of people aged 65 years and above is expected to reach over 1.5 billion worldwide by 2050. Since glaucoma is more prevalent in older age groups, an aging population directly translates to a larger pool of potential patients. At the same time, there is a growing preference among ophthalmologists and patients for minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries and devices as they offer quicker recovery and better safety profiles over traditional invasive surgeries. Glaucoma drainage devices that are implanted using minimally invasive techniques through smaller incisions promise advantages like reduced trauma, less postoperative pain and faster healing. The demand for such minimally invasive glaucoma drainage devices from both surgeons and patients presents a major market opportunity for manufacturers. Companies that are able to develop innovative new devices and technologies enabling minimally invasive implantation techniques can gain higher market share.