세계 시력 검사 장비 시장 규모는 2024년 33억 7,000만 달러에 달했습니다. IMARC Group은 2033년에는 54억 2,000만 달러에 달하고, 2025-2033년간 5.14%의 연평균 복합 성장률(CAGR)을 보일 것으로 예측했습니다. 현재 북미가 시장을 독점하고 있으며, 2024년에는 41.7% 이상의 큰 시장 점유율을 차지할 것으로 예측됩니다. 백내장, 녹내장 등 다양한 안질환의 유병률 증가, 주요 기업 간 여러 제휴 및 파트너십, 눈 건강에 대한 개인의 인식 증가 등이 시력 검사 장비 시장 점유율에 긍정적인 영향을 미치고 있습니다.
시장은 진단 도구에 인공지능(AI)과 머신러닝(ML)의 통합이 진행되면서 시력 검사 장비의 효율성과 정확도가 향상되고 있는 것에 큰 영향을 받고 있습니다. 또한, 가정용 및 휴대용 안과 진단 기기 증가 추세는 특히 원격지에서의 접근성을 확대하는 추세입니다. 또한, 안과 연구 및 기술 혁신에 대한 투자 증가는 첨단 진단 솔루션의 개발을 촉진하고 시장 확대를 강화하고 있습니다. 예를 들어, 2024년 9월 10일, 자이스 비전 케어는 라이트필드 디스플레이 기술을 전문으로 하는 스위스 CREAL에 대한 투자를 발표했습니다. 이번 전략적 투자는 자이스의 비전케어 제품을 강화하고, 안과 전문가와 소비자를 위한 혁신적인 디지털 솔루션을 창출하는 것을 목표로 합니다. 자이스는 CREAL의 기술을 활용하여 디지털 검안과 정확한 진단을 프로세스에 통합하여 안경의 고객 경험을 혁신적으로 변화시킬 계획입니다.
미국은 시력 관리 서비스에 대한 보험 적용이 확대되고 환자가 종합적인 안과 검진을 받을 수 있는 환경이 조성되면서 주요 지역 시장으로 부상하고 있습니다. 예를 들어, 2024년 11월 25일, UnitedHealthcare는 메디케어 어드밴티지 플랜에서 제공되는 시력 보상에 대한 개요를 발표했습니다. 이 플랜에는 정기적인 안과 검진, 처방 안경, 콘택트렌즈가 포함되며, 비용은 플랜의 유형과 지역에 따라 다릅니다. 당뇨병 환자를 위한 기타 혜택으로는 당뇨병 망막 검사, 시력 보상에 소요되는 비용에 대한 자기부담금과 안경의 허용범위 등이 상세하게 명시되어 있습니다. 또한, 당뇨망막병증, 황반변성 등 노화에 따른 안질환의 빈도 증가와 함께 국내 고령화가 성장을 더욱 촉진하고 있습니다. 또한, 디지털カルテ의 도입과 시력검사 장비와 전자 의료 시스템과의 통합으로 진단 효율을 향상시켜 이용 확대를 유도하고 있습니다. 이에 따라 신속하고 저렴한 안과 검사를 제공하는 검안 소매 체인 네트워크의 확대도 시장 확대에 기여하고 있습니다.
안질환 유병률 증가
세계적으로 녹내장, 백내장 등 안과 질환의 유병률이 증가하고 있는 것은 시장에 유리한 기회를 제공합니다. 당뇨병성 망막증과 노화성 황반변성(AMD)을 포함한 많은 안과 질환이 노인들에게서 두드러지게 나타납니다. 보고에 따르면 백내장 관련 질환의 원인으로는 노인황반변성이 800만 명, 녹내장이 770만 명, 당뇨병성 망막증 390만 명, 굴절 이상이 8,840만 명, 원거리 시력 장애 또는 실명이 약 9,400만 명에 달할 전망입니다. 또한, 주요 기업들은 질병의 조기 발견을 돕는 제품 개발에 주력하고 있으며, 이는 시력 검사 장비 시장의 성장을 뒷받침하고 있습니다. 또한, 디지털 기기의 과도한 사용은 눈의 피로를 유발하는 주요 원인으로, 일반적으로 컴퓨터 시각 증후군으로 알려져 있습니다. 장시간의 스크린 사용은 통증과 시력 문제를 유발하고 더 빈번한 안과 검진을 유도하기 때문에 이러한 상태를 평가하고 관리할 수 있는 시력 검사 장비에 대한 수요를 불러일으키고 있습니다.
주요 기업 간의 전략적 제휴 및 파트너십
대기업부터 중소기업까지 파트너십과 공동사업, M&A(인수합병)에 나서고 있어 시력검사장비 시장 전망은 밝습니다. 이번 파트너십을 통해 양사는 각자의 강점과 기술을 결합하여 첨단 시력 검사 장비를 개발할 수 있게 되었습니다. 파트너십은 기업이 새로운 지리적 시장에 진입하고 사용자 기반을 확장하는 데 도움이 됩니다. 또한, 기술 혁신과 신기술 개발을 보다 효율적으로 진행할 수 있습니다. 자원과 전문 지식을 공유함으로써 기업은 최첨단 안과 검사 장비의 개발을 가속화할 수 있습니다. 예를 들어, 2024년 12월 13일 Narayana Nethralaya Eye Hospital과 SHG Technologies는 증강현실을 이용한 국내 최초 자체 개발 저시력 지원 기술인 Aura Vision을 발표했습니다. 이 웨어러블 기기를 사용하면 시력이 저하된 사람들도 글자를 읽고, 탐색하고, 다양한 거리의 사물을 쉽게 볼 수 있습니다.
아이케어에 대한 인식 개선
중요한 시력 검사 장비 시장 동향 중 하나는 사람들의 눈 건강에 대한 인식이 높아졌습니다는 것입니다. 근시, 녹내장, 당뇨망막병증 등 안질환 증가로 인해 사람들은 조기발견과 예방치료에 힘을 쏟고 있습니다. 정부 및 의료 기관, 기업 관련 단체와 함께 정기적인 안과 검진 문제를 널리 알리고 있습니다. 2024년 7월 11일, 국제실명예방기구(IAPB)는 어린이 눈 건강을 강조하는 '세계 시력의 날 2024' 캠페인을 시작했습니다. 이 캠페인은 보호자 및 기타 양육자들에게 아이들의 발달, 학습 및 사회적 교류에 있어 눈 관리가 중요한 역할을 한다는 것을 다시 한 번 인식시키는 것을 목표로 합니다. IAPB는 이번 캠페인을 상징하는 마스코트 'Artie'를 소개하고, 어린이들에게 눈 건강에 대한 인식을 높이기 위한 교재를 함께 제공했습니다. 또한, 디지털화와 소셜 미디어의 발달로 눈 건강에 대한 정보가 더욱 친숙해져 적시에 검진을 받도록 독려하고 있습니다. 이러한 인식 증가는 시장 확대에 기여하고 있으며, 첨단 안과 검사 기술의 채택을 촉진하고 있습니다.
The global eye testing equipment market size was valued at USD 3.37 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 5.42 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.14% during 2025-2033. North America currently dominates the market, holding a significant market share of over 41.7% in 2024. The increasing prevalence of various eye disorders such as cataract and glaucoma, several collaborations and partnerships among key players, and rising awareness among individuals about eye health are some of the factors positively impacting the eye testing equipment market share.
The market is significantly influenced by the increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in diagnostic tools, which is enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of eye testing equipment. Additionally, the growing trend of home-based and portable eye diagnostic devices is expanding accessibility, particularly in remote regions. Furthermore, rising investments in ophthalmic research and technological innovation are fostering the development of advanced diagnostic solutions and strengthening market expansion. For example, on September 10, 2024, ZEISS Vision Care announced an investment in CREAL, a Swiss business that specializes in light field display technology. This strategic investment aims to enhance ZEISS's vision care offerings and create innovative digital solutions for eye care professionals and consumers. By leveraging CREAL's technology, ZEISS plans to transform the eyewear customer experience, incorporating digital eye examinations and precise diagnoses into the process.
The United States stands out as a key regional market, driven by the increasing insurance coverage for vision care services, which is enabling patients access to comprehensive eye testing. For instance, on November 25, 2024, UnitedHealthcare outlined the vision coverage provided under its Medicare Advantage plans. These plans include routine eye exams, prescription glasses, and contact lenses, with costs varying depending on the plan type and location. Additional benefits for those with diabetes include diabetic retinal exams, and the costs for vision coverage are detailed, such as copayments and allowances for eyewear. Moreover, the country's aging population, coupled with a rising the increasing frequency of age-related eye conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration, is further driving growth. Apart from this, the adoption of digital health records and integration of eye testing equipment with electronic medical systems is improving diagnostic efficiency and encouraging greater usage. In line with this, the expanding network of retail optometry chains offering quick and affordable eye exams is also contributing to market expansion.
Rising Prevalence of Eye Disorders
The increasing prevalence of eye diseases such as glaucoma and cataracts across the world is opening lucrative opportunities for the market. Many eye conditions, including diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), are prominent among elderly individuals. According to reports, the causes of cataract-related conditions include age-related macular degeneration for 8 Million, glaucoma for 7.7 Million, diabetic retinopathy for 3.9 Million, refractive error for 88.4 Million, and distant vision impairment or blindness for around 94 Million. Moreover, key players are focusing on developing products that assist in early disease detection, which supports eye testing equipment market growth. Apart from this, more use of digital devices is a major cause of eye strain, commonly known as computer vision syndrome. Long-term screen time can cause pain and vision problems that promote more frequent ocular examinations, thus catalyzing the demand for eye testing equipment to assess and manage these conditions.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships Among Key Players
Several large as well as small scale companies are engaging in partnerships, collaborations, and mergers and acquisitions (M&As), which are offering a favorable eye testing equipment market outlook. Partnerships enable companies to combine their strengths and technologies to develop advanced eye testing equipment. They help companies enter new geographical markets and expand their user base. They also enable companies to innovate and develop new technologies more efficiently. By sharing resources and expertise, companies can accelerate the development of cutting-edge eye testing devices. For example, on December 13, 2024, Narayana Nethralaya Eye Hospital and SHG Technologies introduced Aura Vision, the country's first in-house-developed low-vision assistive technology that uses augmented reality. This wearable device makes it easier for those with impaired vision to read, navigate, and see items at different distances.
Increased Awareness Regarding Eye Care
One of the significant eye testing equipment market trends is the growth in awareness of eye health by people. Higher cases of eye problems such as myopia, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy are forcing people to focus more on early identification and preventive treatments. Governments and healthcare institutions, coupled with business-related organizations, are propagating the issue of regular ocular checkups. On July 11, 2024, the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) launched the World Sight Day 2024 campaign, emphasizing child eye health. It aims to remind parents and other caregivers of the critical role of eye care in children's development, learning, and social interactions. IAPB introduced "Artie," a mascot symbolizing the campaign, accompanied by educational materials to engage children in eye health awareness. Additionally, digitalization and social media have made information about eye health more accessible, encouraging individuals to seek timely screenings. This growing awareness is fueling market expansion and encouraging the adoption of advanced eye testing technologies.
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) leads the market with around 18.7% of market share in 2024. It is utilized for the high-resolution imaging of the retina and optic nerve. It mainly detects glaucoma, AMD (age-related macular degeneration), diabetic retinopathy, and many eye disorders. The demand for OCT devices has increased significantly because of the increasing prevalence of these disorders. With swept-source and spectral-domain systems, the technology in OCT has increased with higher speed, depth, and accuracy for imaging. As a result, this is one of the essential tools that has to be applied in ophthalmology and optometry practice. With artificial intelligence and machine learning, diagnostic efficiency will also increase the chance of early detection and the plan of individual treatment. The growth of telemedicine and remote diagnostics in the field will fuel the market of OCT further. Hence, the OCT still occupies an important place in the market for eye-testing equipment.
General examination leads the market in 2024. It is a fundamental procedure performed to assess overall eye health, diagnose vision problems, and detect early signs of eye diseases. It is a routine part of primary eye care and are performed across various healthcare settings. Routine screening eye tests by employing a mixture of diagnostic instrumentations such as autorefractors, slit lamps, and tonometer's accompanied by visual analyzers are used for evaluating the general situation of the ocular system. Preventive eye care awareness, along with an aging population and increased screen time, increases the demand for comprehensive eye exams. Efficiency, accuracy, and accessibility have been enhanced through improvements in digital and AI-powered diagnostic equipment, which make eye testing easier and more convenient for patients and practitioners.
Eye clinic leads the market in 2024. These clinics offer a wide range of services, ranging from routine eye exams to specialized treatments for various eye conditions. It act as the primary vision care and diagnostic service provider. They serve patients of different levels, including regular checkup needs and the treatment of various specific conditions, such as glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. This comprehensive care approach makes eye clinics a primary place for patients seeking eye health services. These clinics are equipped with specialized diagnostic tools and staffed by experts in ophthalmology and optometry. The presence of advanced equipment such as OCT scanners, fundus cameras, and slit lamps allows these clinics to provide high-quality and specialized care, attracting a large patient base. Besides this, various eye testing equipment companies are engaging in partnerships with eye clinics to provide the latest products to these facilities so that they can be beneficial for handling the diverse needs of patients.
In 2024, North America accounted for the largest market share of over 41.7%. Major market players in the region are continuously innovating and provide cutting-edge technologies to increase their eye testing equipment market revenue. Besides this, the healthcare system in North America, especially in the US and Canada, is highly advanced and outfitted with the newest medical technology. Favorable policies on reimbursement, along with effective regulation, encourage hospitals, eye clinics, and optical retail centers to incorporate innovative solutions related to eye testing. Increasing R&D spending combined with key market players increases the level of competition. With the growing adoption of digital healthcare solutions and home-based vision testing, North America remains a significant force behind innovation and growth for the overall eye testing equipment market globally.
United States Eye Testing Equipment Market Analysis
Growth in the US market for eye testing equipment is on account of the increased prevalence of vision disorders, primarily among older patients. There has been an increasing prevalence of presbyopia, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and AMD; therefore, a greater demand is being experienced for more sophisticated diagnostic tools. According to reports, more than half of the people aged 80 years and older in the United States either suffer from cataracts or have already had the surgery. The increase in the usage of digital devices also causes myopia and digital eye strain and calls for periodic eye screening. Technological advancements in ophthalmic diagnostic apparatus, such as OCT, fundus cameras, and autorefractors, are further fueling growth in the market. Manufacturers are bringing in artificial intelligence and machine learning for automated diagnostic equipment to optimize precision in clinical practice with better efficiency. Government policies, especially in funding for vision care and reimbursement packages for ophthalmic procedures, open an avenue for optometrists and ophthalmologists to adopt high-tech instrumentation. Increased awareness about preventive eye care also increases routine eye checkups and, therefore, demand. In addition, retail chains and optical stores are expanding their diagnostic capabilities, and eye exams are becoming more accessible to the general population. In addition, partnerships between technology companies and healthcare providers accelerate the implementation of teleophthalmology and facilitate greater availability of remote eye examinations.
Asia Pacific Eye Testing Equipment Market Analysis
The Asia Pacific eye testing equipment market is rapidly expanding due to rapid urbanization, changing lifestyles, and increasing screen time. The prevalence of myopia among the major economies, especially China, Japan, and South Korea, further propels market growth. The high burden of vision impairment and blindness with growing awareness of early diagnosis is encouraging demand for advanced ophthalmic diagnostic tools. In addition, regional governing bodies are taking measures to offer access to ophthalmic care in rural and underdeveloped regions. Free eye checkup camps and low-cost treatments for age-related vision disorders are being offered by public health programs, thereby creating a demand for diagnostic devices. In the case of India and China, the number of investments in clinics for ophthalmology is significantly increasing, which elevates the need for testing equipment. Also, the presence of a huge elderly population contributes to the high requirement since older adults are more susceptible to cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. According to NITI Aayog, by 2050, India will have 319 Million older adults, which would make up 20% of the total population. Besides this, inflating disposable incomes and high healthcare expenditures are allowing patients to avail themselves of premium eye care services. The affordability of advanced diagnostic procedures is improving, particularly with the expansion of private eye care centers.
Europe Eye Testing Equipment Market Analysis
Demographic trends, technological innovation, and healthcare investments are the factors driving the Europe eye testing equipment market. The aging population in countries such as Germany, France, and Italy lead to an increase in age-related vision disorders such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. According to reports, primary open-angle glaucoma affected 7.8 Million individuals in Europe, with a prevalence of 2.51%. This demographic change is demanding the need for sophisticated diagnostic equipment to help detect it early and then treat it. The region leads in adopting cutting-edge ophthalmic technologies like AI-based imaging, high-resolution OCT, and automated refraction systems. Healthcare providers are increasingly embracing digital diagnostic solutions to achieve more precision and efficiency. Strong medical technology firms and research institutions' presence hasten new ophthalmic device development and commercialization in Europe. More so, there is great emphasis on the sustainability and ecological approach in medical equipment manufacturing, with European firms seeking energy-efficient and recyclable equipment that is more durable. Therefore, telemedicine and remote diagnostics of the eyes are integrated increasingly, especially for those in rural areas lacking easy access to specialists.
Latin America Eye Testing Equipment Market Analysis
Latin America's eye testing equipment market is gaining momentum because of rising vision disorders, an aging population, and growing healthcare awareness. The IBGE Population Projections indicated that Brazilians aged 60 years old or above grew nearly double during the period 2000 to 2023 from 8.7% to 15.6%. Improvements in healthcare infrastructure, government initiatives regarding vision screening programs, and more private eye care facilities are thereby increasing the growth of the market. Many Latin American countries have adopted policies regarding ophthalmic services, focusing more on such underserved populations. Technological advancements, such as AI-integrated diagnostic solutions and mobile eye testing units, are making it more accessible. In-store vision tests offered by optical retail chains are also a key driver of demand. As investment in ophthalmic healthcare increases, the Latin American market is expected to experience steady growth in the coming years.
Middle East and Africa Eye Testing Equipment Market Analysis
The Middle East & Africa (MEA) eye testing equipment market is expanding on account of increasing cases of vision impairment, growing healthcare investments, and rising awareness about eye health. According to the analysis, the region's current healthcare expenditure (CHE) is expected to increase by 5.4 percent annually from USD 104.1 Billion in 2022 to USD 135.5 Billion by 2027. It is projected that CHE in the GCC nations will rise at growth rates between 4.4% and 7.4%. High rates of diabetes-related eye diseases, including diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma, are driving demand for advanced ophthalmic diagnostic tools. Countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa are witnessing increased spending on specialized eye care services. In addition, the growing presence of international medical device companies and increasing collaborations with local healthcare providers are supporting the market expansion. With ongoing infrastructure developments and a rising focus on early disease detection, the MEA eye testing equipment market is expected to experience steady growth.
The market is highly competitive due to technological advancement, the increasing prevalence of vision disorders, and the demand for early diagnosis. Companies compete on innovation, product quality, pricing, and ease of use. Digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI) integration further heightens competition as more people now opt for automated and portable devices. New market entrants focus on low cost and access, especially for regional markets in developing countries, whereas established players focus on high-image resolution, accuracy, and multipurpose functionality. Compliance with regulatory measures and industry standards will deter new contenders. Also, the contractual involvement of healthcare providers and optical retail chains boosts the attainment of penetration. The uptake of tele-optometry and home-based vision testing solutions is also transforming the landscape.