안구건조증 유병률 증가, 특히 고령화와 스크린 사용자 증가로 인해 안구건조증 치료 시장이 성장하고 있으며, Verified Market Research의 애널리스트에 따르면 안구건조증 치료 시장은 2024년 약 88억 1,000만 달러에 달할 것으로 예측됩니다. 2032년에는 227억 1,000만 달러에 달할 것으로 추정됩니다.
안구건조증 치료 시장의 급격한 성장은 효과적인 치료법에 대한 세계 수요 증가와 치료 옵션에 대한 기술 발전이 주요 요인으로 작용하고 있습니다. 이에 따라 시장은 2026-2032년까지 연평균 13.86%의 연평균 복합 성장률(CAGR)을 보일 것으로 예측됩니다.
안구건조증 치료 시장 정의/개요
안구건조증은 눈물의 분비 부족과 눈물의 급격한 증발을 특징으로 하는 질환으로, 불편감과 시력장애를 유발할 수 있습니다. 안구건조증 치료법으로는 인공누액, 항염증제, 눈물 저장 및 눈물 분비를 촉진하는 시술 등이 있습니다.
또한, 안구건조증 치료는 즉각적인 증상 완화, 근본적인 원인 관리, 추가 합병증 예방 등 다양한 용도로 사용됩니다. 방부제를 포함하지 않는 제제 및 새로운 약물 전달 시스템과 같은 치료법의 개선은 환자의 예후를 개선하고 시장 성장을 가속하고 있습니다.
안구건조증은 점점 더 흔해지고 있으며, 이는 시장 성장 촉진요인으로 작용하고 있습니다. 미국 국립 안과 연구소(NEI)에 따르면, 미국에서는 1,600만 명 이상의 성인이 DES 진단을 받았으며, 수백만 명은 아직 진단되지 않은 것으로 추정됩니다. 환자 수가 증가함에 따라 보다 효과적인 치료 옵션이 요구되고 있습니다.
고령화로 인해 안구건조증 치료에 대한 요구가 매우 높아지고 있습니다. 세계보건기구(WHO)에 따르면 2030년까지 전 세계 인구 6명 중 1명이 60세 이상이 될 것이라고 합니다. 안구건조증은 노년층에서 많이 발생하기 때문에 고령화는 시장 확대의 원동력이 될 것으로 보입니다.
또한, 2020년 Vision Council의 조사에 따르면 미국인의 59%가 장시간 스크린 사용으로 인해 디지털 눈의 피로 증상을 보이고 있으며, 이는 안구건조증과 직접적으로 연관된 안구건조증과 관련이 있다고 합니다. 스크린 사용 시간이 늘어남에 따라 효과적인 치료법에 대한 수요도 증가하고 있습니다.
안구건조증에 대한 획기적인 치료법은 고가의 비용으로 인해 안구건조증 치료의 수용을 가로막는 큰 장벽이 되고 있습니다. 장기적인 치료를 위해서는 고가의 처방약, 전문의의 안약, 천공 플러그, 열 맥동 시스템 등의 의료기기가 필요합니다. 의료보험 적용 범위가 제한적이거나 본인 부담금이 높은 지역의 환자들은 이러한 가격 때문에 상당한 장벽에 직면하고 있습니다. 환자들은 치료를 미루거나 질병 관리에 도움이 되지 않는 일반 의약품을 사용하기도 합니다.
증상이 있더라도 일시적인 불편함이나 환경적 요인에 의한 것으로 착각하고 병원을 찾지 않는 경우가 많습니다. 또한, 의료진은 특히 초기 단계에서는 안구건조증을 중요한 건강 문제로 우선순위에 두지 않는 경우가 많습니다. 이러한 인식과 진단의 부족은 효과적인 치료법을 도입하는 데 방해가 됩니다. 환자들은 이 증상이 만성적이며 삶의 질을 크게 향상시킬 수 있는 전문적인 치료법이 있다는 것을 알지 못하기 때문입니다.
또한, 치료 효과의 편차가 크다는 점도 안구건조증 치료법 도입의 과제가 되고 있습니다. 안구건조증은 환경적 요인, 호르몬 변화, 기저질환 등 여러 가지 원인이 있기 때문에 환자마다 치료 성적이 천차만별입니다. 어떤 환자는 특정 치료법에 반응하지 않는 경우도 있고, 어떤 환자는 부작용을 경험하여 계속 사용하는 것을 망설이게 되는 경우도 있습니다. 이러한 치료 효과의 예측 불가능성은 환자들의 좌절감을 불러일으키고, 처방된 치료법에 대한 순응도를 떨어뜨리며, 장기적으로 질환을 관리하기 위해 고안된 첨단 치료법의 전반적인 채택률을 낮추었습니다.
The increasing prevalence of dry eye syndrome, particularly among the aging population and increased screen time users, is driving the Dry Eye Syndrome Treatment Market upwards. According to the analyst from Verified Market Research, the Dry Eye Syndrome Treatment Market is estimated to reach a valuation of USD 22.71 Billion in 2032, by subjugating around USD 8.81 Billion valued in 2024.
The rapid expansion of the Dry Eye Syndrome Treatment Market is primarily driven by the rising global demand for effective therapies, as well as technological advancements in treatment options. It enables the market to grow at a CAGR of 13.86% from 2026 to 2032.
Dry Eye Syndrome Treatment Market: Definition/ Overview
Dry eye syndrome is a condition characterized by insufficient tear production or rapid tear evaporation, leading to discomfort and potential vision problems. Treatment options for dry eye syndrome include artificial tears, anti-inflammatory medications, and procedures to conserve tears or stimulate tear production.
Furthermore, dry eye syndrome treatments have a wide range of applications, including providing immediate relief from symptoms, managing underlying causes, and preventing further complications. Improved treatments, such as preservative-free formulations and novel drug delivery systems, are enhancing patient outcomes and driving market growth.
Dry eye condition is becoming increasingly common, which is a major market driver. According to the National Eye Institute (NEI), more than 16 million adults in the United States have been diagnosed with DES, with millions more potentially undiagnosed. The growing patient population demands more effective treatment choices.
The aging population is greatly increasing the need for dry eye remedies. According to the World Health Organization (WHO, by 2030, one in every six persons worldwide would be 60 or older. Because dry eye conditions are more common among older persons, the aging population is likely to drive market expansion.
Furthermore, the increase in screen time and digital eye strain is driving demand for dry eye remedies. According to a Vision Council study published in 2020, 59% of American people express symptoms of digital eye strain because of prolonged screen use, which is directly linked to dry eye syndrome. As screen time increases, so does the demand for effective therapies.
The high expense of innovative treatments for dry eye syndrome is a major barrier to their acceptance. Long-term treatment requires expensive prescription medications, specialist eye drops, and medical devices such as punctual plugs or thermal pulsation systems. Patients in areas with limited healthcare coverage or high out-of-pocket charges face considerable barriers due to these prices. Patients delay therapy or use over-the-counter medicines, which are not beneficial for managing the illness.
Many individuals experiencing symptoms do not seek medical attention, mistaking their condition for temporary discomfort or attributing it to environmental factors. Furthermore, healthcare providers do not always prioritize dry eye syndrome as a significant health issue, especially in the early stages. This lack of awareness and diagnosis hinders the adoption of effective treatments, as patients do not realize the chronic nature of the condition or the availability of specialized therapies that could significantly improve their quality of life.
Furthermore, the variability in treatment effectiveness also poses a challenge in the adoption of dry eye syndrome treatments. Since dry eye syndrome has multiple causes, including environmental factors, hormonal changes, and underlying medical conditions, treatment outcomes vary greatly from one patient to another. Some patients do not respond well to certain therapies or experience side effects that discourage continued use. This unpredictability in treatment response led to patient frustration, reduced compliance with prescribed therapies, and lower overall adoption of advanced treatments designed to manage the condition long-term.
According to VMR analysis, the artificial tears segment is estimated to dominate the market in the product type segment during the forecast period. Artificial tears provide immediate relief by lubricating the eyes and are widely available over the counter, making them highly accessible to patients. This widespread availability and ease of use contribute significantly to their market dominance.
Also, technological advancements have led to the development of preservative-free and long-lasting formulations of artificial tears. These innovations have enhanced the efficacy and safety profile of artificial tears, making them more appealing to both patients and healthcare providers. The improved formulations address concerns about preservative-related irritation and offer longer-lasting relief, further driving their popularity in the market.
Furthermore, artificial tears are often recommended as a first-line treatment for dry eye syndrome by eye care professionals. They are suitable for mild to moderate cases of dry eye and be used in conjunction with other treatments for more severe cases. This application's versatility contributes to their widespread use and market dominance.
The retail pharmacies segment is estimated to dominate the Dry Eye Syndrome Treatment Market during the forecast period. Retail pharmacies offer widespread accessibility and convenience for patients seeking over-the-counter dry eye treatments like artificial tears and lubricating eye drops. They are often the first point of contact for individuals looking for immediate relief from dry eye symptoms, contributing to their market dominance.
The growing number of chain pharmacies and drugstores has significantly expanded the reach of retail pharmacies. These establishments often offer a wide range of dry eye products, from basic artificial tears to more specialized treatments. The convenience of accessing these products alongside other healthcare needs makes retail pharmacies a preferred channel for many consumers.
Furthermore, many retail pharmacies now offer personalized in-store consultations with pharmacists. These consultations provide valuable guidance to customers in selecting appropriate dry eye treatments, enhancing the overall customer experience, and building trust. This personalized approach, combined with the immediate availability of products, strengthens the position of retail pharmacies in the Dry Eye Syndrome Treatment Market.
According to VMR Analyst, North America is estimated to dominate the Dry Eye Syndrome Treatment Market during the forecast period. North America, particularly the U.S., has a high prevalence of dry eye syndrome, driving the demand for treatment options. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, approximately 16 million people in the U.S. have been diagnosed with dry eye disease. This large patient population supports the region's dominance in the market for dry eye treatments.
North America benefits from strong research and development activities in the healthcare sector. This leads to innovative product launches and advanced treatment options for dry eye syndrome. The region's robust healthcare infrastructure and high awareness of eye health among the population further cement its market dominance.
Furthermore, the increasing use of digital devices and screen time, particularly in the U.S., has contributed to a rising number of dry eye cases. A report from the Vision Council revealed that nearly 80% of American adults use digital devices for more than two hours per day, which significantly increases the risk of developing dry eye. This growing trend is fueling the demand for effective treatments in North America.
The Asia Pacific region is estimated to exhibit the highest growth rate within the Dry Eye Syndrome Treatment Market during the forecast period. The rapid urbanization and increasing pollution levels in Asia-Pacific are contributing to the rising prevalence of dry eye syndrome. A study published by the World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted that many major cities in Asia, such as New Delhi and Beijing, experience high levels of air pollution, which exacerbates eye health issues, including dry eye.
The aging population across many countries in the Asia-Pacific region is another significant driver for the Dry Eye Syndrome Treatment Market. According to the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), the number of people aged 60 or older in Asia-Pacific is expected to increase from 630 million in 2020 to 1.3 billion by 2050. As dry eye syndrome is more prevalent among older adults, this demographic shift is contributing to the growing demand for treatment solutions.
Furthermore, the rapid adoption of digital devices, particularly in countries like China, Japan, and India, is fueling the rise in dry eye syndrome cases. According to a report by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), more than 50% of Indian adults experience digital eye strain due to excessive screen time, leading to a higher prevalence of dry eye symptoms. This growing trend of digital device usage is significantly boosting the demand for dry eye treatments in the Asia-Pacific region.
The Dry Eye Syndrome Treatment Market's competitive landscape is characterized by a diverse range of companies, including pharmaceutical giants, specialty eye care companies, and innovative startups, all striving for market share in an increasingly dynamic and growing industry.
Some of the prominent players operating in the Dry Eye Syndrome Treatment Market include:
Novartis AG, Allergan plc, Bausch Health Companies Inc., Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Johnson & Johnson, Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Akorn, Inc., Thea Pharmaceuticals Limited, OASIS Medical.
In May 2023, Bausch + Lomb acquired Blink Tears from Johnson & Johnson Vision. This acquisition strengthens Bausch + Lomb's over-the-counter eye care product portfolio, expanding its market reach in the dry eye treatment space.
In October 2022, Novartis received FDA approval for its Xiidra (lifitegrast ophthalmic solution) for the treatment of dry eye disease in patients 17 years and older. The approval enhances the company's stronghold in the growing dry eye market by offering a proven therapeutic solution.