Diabetic macular edema (DME) refers to a buildup of fluid in the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision, as a consequence of diabetes mellitus. It is the leading cause of vision loss among working-age adults. The two main types of treatment for DME are anti-VEGF therapies and corticosteroid implants/injections. Anti-VEGF drugs such as ranibizumab (Lucentis) and aflibercept (Eylea) inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor, which plays a central role in abnormal blood vessel growth associated with DME. Corticosteroid implants like fluocinolone acetonide (Iluvien) and dexamethasone (Ozurdex) decrease inflammation and vessel permeability.

The Global Diabetic Macular Edema Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 4.2 Bn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 4.2% over the forecast period 2024 To 2031.

Key Takeaways

Key players operating in the Diabetic Macular Edema are Kodiak Sciences,Roche/Genentech,Regeneron Pharmaceuticals,Gene Signal,Inflammasome Therapeutics. Kodiak Sciences is developing an antibody biopolymer conjugate to treat DME and generated positive phase 2a results. Roche/Genentech's ranibizumab, sold as Lucentis, is a leading anti-VEGF treatment for DME. Regeneron Pharmaceuticals markets aflibercept under the brand name Eylea.

The Diabetic Macular Edema Market size increasing prevalence of diabetes owing to rising levels of obesity is driving the growth of DME patient population. According to IDF Atlas 2021, around 537 million adults are living with diabetes globally and the number is projected to rise to 643 million by 2030 and 783 million by 2045. DME often develops as a complication of diabetes, increasing the market potential.

Technological advancements are facilitating early diagnosis and treatment of DME. Optical coherence tomography allows high-resolution cross-sectional imaging of the retina to detect macular swelling at an early stage. Advances in bioanalysis are helping physicians monitor treatment response more closely and customize therapy.

Market Trends

The market is witnessing a shift towards combination therapies to better manage DME. Some trials are evaluating concomitant use of anti-VEGF drugs with corticosteroid implants to leverage their complementary mechanisms of action. There is also research on synergistic therapies combining anti-VEGFs with drugs targeting other pathways like inflammation.

Early disease management through lifestyle modification and glycemic control is gaining prominence. Tight control of blood sugar levels in diabetics can delay onset and slow progression of DME, which reduces the burden on healthcare systems. Pharmaceutical companies are increasingly awareness programs on prevention.

Market Opportunities

Gene therapy is an emerging avenue to provide long-term treatment for DME. Some companies are developing gene therapy candidates to deliver sustained levels of anti-VEGF proteins within the eye using viral vectors. This could potentially replace frequent eye injections required with current therapies.

Digital tools leveraging artificial intelligence show promise for automated analysis of Optical Coherence Tomography images to detect DME at early stages. This can facilitate timely intervention and curb vision loss. As AI/ML see further advances, such applications may help expand screening and enhance management of the condition globally.

Impact of COVID-19 on Diabetic Macular Edema Market Growth

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the growth of the diabetic macular edema market. During the initial months of the pandemic, the number of patient visits to eye care facilities declined sharply as people avoided visiting hospitals and clinics due to fear of virus transmission. This led to a decline in the diagnosis and treatment rate of diabetic macular edema cases. However, as healthcare facilities adapted to the new normal by taking necessary safety precautions, the number of patient visits gradually recovered over the past year.

Telemedicine also played a key role in ensuring continuity of care for DME patients during the pandemic. Various eye care organizations and hospitals started offering teleophthalmology and telemedicine consultations to triage patients and monitor those under treatment. This helped in remote monitoring of DME cases and managing emergency situations. With greater availability of COVID-19 vaccines currently, the number of patient visits to eye care setups is expected to rise further in 2022. This will help regain the lost momentum in DME diagnosis and treatment rate over the next few years.

North America Diabetic Macular Edema Market

The North American region accounts for the largest share of the global diabetic macular edema market in terms of value. This is due to the rising prevalence of diabetes along with a robust healthcare infrastructure and high disposable income levels in the region which allows better access to advanced treatment options. The United States represents the major market within North America attributed to presence of many leading players, large patient pool and favorable reimbursement framework. Growing public awareness about diabetes management and availability of generics have further boosted the adoption of anti-VEGF drugs in the country over the past decade.

Asia Pacific Fastest Growing Region in DME Market

The Asia Pacific region has emerged as the fastest growing market for diabetic macular edema globally. This growth can be attributed to improving healthcare infrastructure, rapid economic development and rising geriatric population in major countries such as India and China. Other factors such as growing disease awareness, increasing healthcare spending capacity and availability of low cost generic drugs are also supporting market expansion in the region. The market is expected to receive further impetus over the coming years from government initiatives towards diabetes control as well as proliferation of private healthcare organizations offering advanced retinal care services.

Get More Insights on- Diabetic Macular Edema Market

About Author:

Ravina Pandya, Content Writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravina-pandya-1a3984191)