Erosive hand osteoarthritis, also known as inflammatory osteoarthritis, is a debilitating condition characterized by cartilage loss and new bone growth in the joints of hands. It causes bony changes, cysts, and erosions on X-rays. Erosive hand osteoarthritis results in symptoms like joint pain, swelling, tenderness, and stiffness – especially in the finger joints. As the cartilage protecting the bone wears away, bone ends are exposed and bone spurs develop. This leads to loss of hand function over time. Non-surgical treatment options for erosive hand osteoarthritis aim to reduce symptoms like pain and swelling. They include analgesics, corticosteroid injections, topical NSAIDs, bracing, and physical or occupational therapy.
The erosive hand osteoarthritis market is estimated to be valued at USD 3.5 Bn in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 6.2 Bn by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4% from 2024 to 2031.
Key Takeaways
Key players operating in the erosive hand osteoarthritis market are AbbVie, Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer, Novartis, and Eli Lilly. They dominate with their analgesic and corticosteroid injection offerings.
The increasing geriatric population worldwide is driving the demand for treatment of age-related osteoarthritis conditions. According to the United Nations, the number of people aged 65 years and above is projected to reach 1.5 billion by 2050.
Novel drug delivery technologies are enabling non-invasive and long-acting treatment options for Erosive Hand Osteoarthritis Market with reduced side effects. This includes transdermal gels, patches, and extended-release injections.
Market Trends
Increasing preference for biologics: Biologics offer targeted mode of action with fewer side effects compared to small molecule drugs. Development of biosimilars is also improving access and lowering costs of biologics.
Focus on combination therapies: Combining medication classes such as analgesics and disease-modifying drugs is gaining popularity as it provides better symptom relief and slows disease progression.
Market Opportunities
Stem cell therapy: Mesenchymal stem cells have shown potential to reduce joint inflammation and stimulate cartilage repair in osteoarthritis. This remains an upcoming opportunity.
Digital tools: Wearables, mobile apps, and telehealth can help better manage the condition through remote monitoring of symptoms and therapy adherence.
Impact of COVID-19 on Erosive Hand Osteoarthritis Market Growth
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the erosive hand osteoarthritis market. During the initial months of the pandemic, the market witnessed a decline in growth due to lockdowns and social distancing measures implemented across various countries. Healthcare resources and focus were diverted towards tackling the COVID-19 crisis. Routines checkups, diagnosis procedures and treatments related to erosive hand osteoarthritis saw a drop as people tried to avoid hospitals and clinics.
However, as the months progressed and healthcare systems adapted to the new normal, focus has gradually returned towards other conditions like erosive hand osteoarthritis as well. Teleconsultations have helped people to continue receiving required care and guidance while avoiding physical visits. Various pharmaceutical companies engaged in developing treatment therapies for erosive hand osteoarthritis also faced delays and disruptions in their clinical trial processes initially due to the pandemic.
As the vaccine rollout accelerates globally, it is expected that the erosive hand osteoarthritis market will start witnessing rise in demand and returns to pre-pandemic growth levels over the next year. Emphasis will be on digital and remote monitoring solutions to ensure continuity of care. Companies may also focus on developing more effective and affordable treatment options to cater to the growing needs.
Erosive Hand Osteoarthritis Market Growth in Europe
Europe accounts for the largest share of the global erosive hand osteoarthritis market in terms of value. Countries such as Germany, United Kingdom, Italy, France and Spain have a high prevalence of erosive hand osteoarthritis among the aging population. Availability of advanced healthcare infrastructure and growing public awareness about the condition has also contributed to Europe’s large market size over others. However, with pandemic impacting the region severely in the initial months, the market faced disruptions. As vaccination rates improve, Europe’s erosive hand osteoarthritis market is expected to bounce back relatively faster than other regions.
Fastest Growing Region – Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific region is poised to witness the fastest growth in the erosive hand osteoarthritis market over the forecast period. Rapidly aging populations in countries like China and India will significantly drive the market growth in the coming years. Economic development and improvements in healthcare access are also supporting factors. While the pandemic stalled growth temporarily, initiatives focused on prevention, early diagnosis and continued access to care especially in major markets like India, China and Japan will help Asia Pacific regain its status as fastest growing market for erosive hand osteoarthritis post pandemic.
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