The global hospital acquired infection control market is on a trajectory of steady growth, with revenues estimated at $29.1 billion in 2021 and a projected increase to $31.3 billion by 2026, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.5%. This robust growth can be attributed to various factors, including the high incidence of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs), an upsurge in surgical procedures, a burgeoning geriatric population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, advancements in sterilization equipment technology, and heightened awareness of environmental and personal hygiene spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, emerging opportunities lie in the adoption of E-beam sterilization, the return of ethylene oxide sterilization, and the expansion of the healthcare industry, especially in emerging economies.
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Driving Forces
Increasing Number of Surgical Procedures: Surgical procedures have seen a substantial uptick worldwide, with approximately 235 million major surgeries performed annually according to the World Health Organization. This rise can be attributed to factors such as increasing obesity rates, lifestyle diseases, a growing aging population, and more incidents of spinal and sports-related injuries. This surge in surgical interventions has led to a higher demand for sterile equipment and medical devices, making hospital acquired infection control services crucial.
Challenges
Concerns Regarding Reprocessed Instruments: While healthcare facilities often reprocess reusable medical devices to reduce costs and waste, concerns persist over their safety and performance. Inadequate cleaning and sterilization of such instruments can lead to the retention of biological debris, increasing the risk of surgical-site infections. This has made hospital administrators and physicians wary of reprocessing.
Opportunities
Reintroduction of Ethylene Oxide Sterilization: Ethylene oxide (EtO) sterilization, known for its effectiveness with instruments susceptible to high temperatures, has faced safety concerns. However, its adoption has risen due to the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for sterilizing protective gear and single-use instruments. The FDA reports that over 20 billion devices in the US, roughly 50% of those requiring sterilization, use EtO.
Challenges
Complications Associated with Infection Control Procedures: The cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization of advanced medical devices present challenges. Inadequate sterilization can expose patients to HAI risks, especially with technologically advanced instruments like endoscopes. Ensuring appropriate disinfection of these complex devices remains a significant challenge.
Market Segmentation
- Sterilization Method: Ethylene oxide (EtO) sterilization holds the largest market share due to its extensive applications, including medical devices, food testing, pharmaceuticals, and life sciences.
- Products and Services: Protective barriers account for the largest market share in infection control products, although a downward trend is expected post-pandemic.
- End Users: Ambulatory surgical and diagnostic centers are expected to witness the highest CAGR, driven by the rising prevalence of HAIs, increased adoption of single-use devices, and the growth in outpatient services.
- Region: North America leads the market, with a growing demand for sterilization and disinfection products driven by a focus on healthy lifestyles and disease prevention, a rising geriatric population, and favorable government initiatives.
Key Players
The market is populated with prominent players such as STERIS plc, Sotera Health Company, Getinge AB, Advanced Sterilization Products (ASP), Ecolab Inc., 3M Company, MATACHANA GROUP, MMM Group, Belimed AG, Reckitt Benckiser, Metrex Research LLC, Miele Group, Pal International, MELAG Medizintechnik GmbH & Co. KG, Contec, Inc., MEDALKAN, Systec GmbH, C.B.M. S.r.l. Medical Equipment, Continental Equipment Company, and BGS Beta-Gamma-Service GmbH & Co. KG.
Conclusion
The global hospital acquired infection control market is poised for growth, driven by factors like the rise in surgical procedures and the ongoing focus on infection control. While challenges persist, opportunities abound with the reintroduction of ethylene oxide sterilization. With the healthcare landscape evolving, innovation and stringent standards in infection control remain paramount. North America stands as the current leader in this market, but emerging economies are expected to play a pivotal role in the future.