Glycated haemoglobin testing, also known as HbA1c testing or A1c testing, is used to monitor levels of glycated haemoglobin in the blood and estimates average plasma glucose concentration over prolonged periods of time. Haemoglobin binds to glucose in the blood and forms glycated haemoglobin, providing an indication of how well diabetes has been controlled over the previous 6-8 weeks. Blood samples are analysed to measure the percentage of glycated haemoglobin to total haemoglobin in the blood, a ratio known as A1c, HbA1c or estimated average glucose (eAG). Regular testing is important for people with diabetes to understand how well their blood sugar levels have been controlled and assess diabetes management plans.
The glycated haemoglobin testing market is estimated to be valued at USD 239 Mn in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 426 Mn by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.6% from 2024 to 2031.
Factors such as the rapidly growing diabetic patient pool, increased awareness about complications of diabetes, preference for A1c testing over self-monitoring of blood glucose, and recommendations for regular Glycated Haemoglobin Testing Market by healthcare organizations are fueling market growth.
Key players operating in the glycated haemoglobin testing market are Abbott Laboratories, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc., Beckman Coulter Inc., Bayer AG, Randox Laboratories Ltd., ARKRAY Inc, and PTS Diagnostics.
The rapidly growing number of diabetic patients worldwide is a key factor driving the demand for glycated haemoglobin testing. According to the International Diabetes Federation, around 537 million adults were living with diabetes in 2021 globally and the number is projected to rise to 700 million by 2045.
Technological advancements in A1c testing methods such as point-of-care testing and home-based monitoring using blood samples collected via a simple finger-prick are encouraging greater adoption. Newer generations of portable A1c testing devices with advanced data analytics capabilities can improve glucose management.
Market Trends
Increasing preference for point-of-care A1c testing: The availability of small, affordable and user-friendly POC testing devices is boosting adoption in alternative care settings like physicians' offices, ambulatory surgical centres, and homes. This offers improved patient access and convenience.
Growing focus on prediabetes screening: Healthcare providers are encouraging prediabetes screening through A1c testing to enable early intervention strategies and prevent/delay the onset of diabetes. This offers growth prospects.
Market Opportunities
Rising demand in emerging economies: Developing countries in Asia Pacific and Latin America are witnessing a growing diabetes burden. Increasing healthcare expenditure and favourable government initiatives in these markets will drive testing uptake.
Integration of home monitoring devices with digital apps: Combining home A1c monitors with digital health platforms that provide meal logging, glucose trends, progress tracking and remote support from clinicians can encourage self-care and diabetes management. This presents opportunities for players.
Impact of COVID-19 on the Glycated Haemoglobin Testing Market Growth:
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the glycated haemoglobin testing market. During the initial outbreak, several hospitals and clinics shifted their focus towards treatment of COVID patients. As a result, non-essential medical tests and procedures got postponed. This led to a decline in the number of glycated haemoglobin tests conducted globally. Movement restrictions and social distancing norms further restricted access to healthcare facilities. However, as the pandemic progressed, online consultations and home delivery of testing kits gained prominence. This helped revive the market to some extent. With growing awareness about management of chronic diseases like diabetes, demand for glycated haemoglobin tests is expected to increase in the post-pandemic period.
In terms of geographical regions, North America accounts for the largest share of the glycated haemoglobin testing market in terms of value. This is predominantly due to the rising burden of diabetes, developed healthcare infrastructure and higher access to advanced diagnosis and treatment options. However, Asia Pacific is expected to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period owing to factors like growing geriatric population, increasing healthcare expenditure, growing awareness regarding diabetes management and rapid adoption of new technologies.
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