Market for Bone and Joint Therapies to Double by 2005

The aging of the baby boomer generation in the U.S. and other developed countries will result in a doubling of the market for bone and joint therapies over the next five years, according to a study from Business Communications Co., Inc. ("RB-143 Bones and Joints: Drugs, Devices, and Regenerative Technologies,” Norwalk, CT, USA).

Boomer women are reaching menopause, when treatments to prevent osteoporosis may be needed. Boomer men are finding sports participation increasingly difficult because of joint problems. Spinal problems are beginning to take their toll in both men and women. In fact, most disorders of bones and joints are the consequence of aging. As a result, new regenerative therapies are being introduced to treat bone and joint problems.

According to the new study, the total market for bone and joint therapies is estimated at US$20.2 billion in 2000, which is likely to double to nearly $40.4 billion as it grows at an average annual rate of 14.9% over the next five years. Included in this market are drugs to
treat osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis as well as orthopedic medical devices such as spinal fixation implants, external and internal fixation for fractures, and prosthetic joint implants.

Drugs account for the largest segment of this market, contributing nearly 64% of the total market in 20005. In contrast, the device market is growing more slowly at an average annual rate of 10.9%, especially the market for orthopedic implants. The drug category, say the study's authors, is benefiting from new pharmaceuticals based on biotechnology, which are generally more specific, more effective, and more expensive. Regenerative therapies, while still a small fraction of the total, are the fastest growing type of therapy, expected to reach an average annual rate of 49% by 2005.



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