1 Global Lung Transplant Market Insight Analysis
The global lung transplant market is valued at USD 1,727.69 million in 2024, with a historical CAGR of approximately 7% from 2024 to 2033.
A lung transplant is a surgical procedure in which a diseased or failing lung is replaced with a healthy one. It is typically reserved for patients who have not significantly improved after trying other medications or treatments. Depending on the patient’s medical condition, it can involve replacing one lung (Single – Lung Transplantation, SLT) or both lungs (Bilateral Lung Transplantation, BLT). The process includes preoperative lung protection and postoperative treatment with immunosuppressant medications to prevent organ rejection.
Figure Global Lung Transplant Market Size (M USD) and CAGR (2024-2033)
2 Lung Transplant Market Growth Drivers and Restraints
In terms of driving factors, medical demand and economic development have played an important role. With the development of modern economy and technology, medical standards have been continuously improved, and people pay more and more attention to health, making lung transplantation as a standard treatment for end-stage respiratory failure, and the demand continues to increase.
In emerging economies, the growth of residents’ disposable income has enabled more patients to afford the costs related to lung transplantation, providing strong support for market development. According to WTO data in 2017, 6,084 lung transplants are performed each year worldwide, and the market is expected to maintain steady growth in the future, which is closely related to the growing medical demand and the improvement in payment ability brought about by economic development.
Technological progress is also a key driving force. New breakthroughs have been made in the fields of organ transplantation and tissue engineering, significantly improving the success rate of lung transplantation and improving the long-term survival and functional prognosis of patients. This not only enhances patients’ confidence in receiving lung transplantation, but also prompts more medical institutions to carry out related businesses, further promoting the development of the market.
At the same time, the progress in postoperative drug research and development can better prevent or treat chronic rejection reactions, and the improvement of preoperative lung protection equipment has effectively reduced lung damage. These technological innovations have laid a solid foundation for the expansion of the lung transplantation market.
However, the development of the lung transplant market also faces many limiting factors. Complications are a major obstacle. Severe or even fatal complications may occur after lung transplantation, among which rejection and infection are the most prominent. The patient’s immune system will attack the transplanted lung as a foreign body, and even if the donor and recipient are well matched, this situation cannot be completely avoided.
In order to suppress rejection, patients need to take anti-rejection drugs for life. These drugs not only cause side effects such as weight gain, facial hair, and stomach discomfort, but also may increase the risk of diseases such as diabetes, kidney damage, osteoporosis, cancer, and hypertension, which to some extent affects patients’ willingness to receive lung transplants.
The lack of donors also restricts market development. Due to the influence of religious and customary concepts, there is a great resistance to organ donation, especially in developing and underdeveloped economies. The acquisition rate of lung organs is much lower than that of kidneys, livers, and hearts, only 15% of all cadaveric donors, which makes the shortage of donor lungs the main factor limiting the number of lung transplant operations.
Although studies have shown that extracorporeal lung perfusion and repair technology may make some donor lungs that were originally unsuitable for transplantation possible, the current shortage of donors still seriously hinders the implementation of lung transplantation surgery, which in turn affects the development of the preoperative lung protection equipment and postoperative therapeutic drug market.
3 Technological Innovations in the Lung Transplant Market
In terms of technological innovation, the field of lung transplantation has made continuous progress in basic science and clinical research. Although lung transplantation surgery has made significant progress in the past few decades, its morbidity and mortality rates are still high compared with other solid organ transplants. Therefore, many studies have focused on how to improve the success rate of lung transplantation and the survival rate of patients.
Among them, expanding the source of donor lungs has become one of the key research directions. The in vitro lung perfusion technology can evaluate and process donor lungs in vitro, so that some lungs that were originally unsuitable for transplantation can be reused, effectively expanding the donor pool. Research on bioengineered lungs is also being actively carried out, which is expected to solve the problem of donor lung shortage.
There are also new explorations in treating infected donors and preventing post-transplant complications. The discovery of new biomarkers helps to monitor the patient’s condition more accurately and provide a basis for personalized treatment; new treatment methods continue to emerge, aiming to reduce the risk of infection and improve the effect of transplantation. These technological innovations have brought new opportunities for the development of the lung transplant market and driven the industry forward.
Corporate mergers and acquisitions and restructuring also occur frequently in the lung transplant market, which has a profound impact on the industry landscape. Astellas acquired Nanna Therapeutics and gained its advanced screening platform and DNA-encoded chemical library technology, greatly enhancing its capabilities in early drug development. This technology integration will help Astellas develop more targeted drugs to meet the treatment needs of lung transplant patients and enhance its competitiveness in the market.
Pfizer acquired Bamboo Therapeutics and successfully expanded its expertise in gene therapy, acquiring relevant clinical and preclinical assets, advanced recombinant adeno-associated virus vector design and production technology, and fully functional gene therapy manufacturing facilities. This acquisition has enabled Pfizer to take an important step in the field of gene therapy, providing stronger support for gene therapy research and application related to lung transplantation, and is expected to promote innovation in lung transplantation treatment technology.
4 Global Lung Transplant Market Size by Type
Single-Lung Transplantation (SLT) involves replacing one of the patient’s lungs with a healthy donor lung. This procedure is typically used for patients with lung diseases that primarily affect one lung. In 2024, the market value for SLT is projected to be $651.55 million USD. This segment has shown consistent growth due to its application in treating conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The growth is also driven by advancements in surgical techniques and the availability of suitable donor organs.
Bilateral Lung Transplantation (BLT), also known as double-lung transplant, involves replacing both lungs of the patient. This procedure is more complex and is often required for patients with diseases that affect both lungs, such as cystic fibrosis and idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension. In 2024, the market value for BLT is projected to be $1,076.14 million USD. The higher market value for BLT compared to SLT reflects the increased complexity and resource requirements of the procedure, as well as the broader range of conditions it addresses.
Table Global Lung Transplant Market Size by Type in 2024
Type | Market Size (M USD) 2024 |
|---|---|
Single-Lung Transplantation (SLT) | 651.55 |
Bilateral Lung Transplantation (BLT) | 1076.14 |
5 Global Lung Transplant Market Size by Application
Children: Lung transplantation for children is a treatment option for those with untreatable and fatal pulmonary diseases. The most common indications include cystic fibrosis and idiopathic pulmonary hypertension. In 2024, the market value for lung transplants in children is forecasted to be $136.53 million. Although children account for a relatively small proportion of the overall lung transplant market, the growth rate is stable.
The improvement in medical technology and the increasing awareness of pediatric lung diseases have contributed to the growth of this segment. For example, better surgical techniques and postoperative care have enhanced the survival rate of pediatric lung transplant patients, leading to a gradual increase in market demand.
Adults: Lung transplantation has become an accepted therapy for end – stage lung disease in adults. The main indications are chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and cystic fibrosis. In 2024, the market value for adult lung transplants is expected to reach $1139.98 million, which is the largest share among the three application segments.
The large market size is due to the high prevalence of end – stage lung diseases in adults. With the aging of the population and the increase in smoking – related diseases, the demand for adult lung transplants is likely to remain high. Moreover, continuous advancements in medical technology have improved the success rate of adult lung transplants, further driving the growth of this segment.
Senior Citizens: Lung transplantation for senior citizens has been a topic of debate due to age – related concerns. However, with the revision of lung allocation scores and a better understanding of outcomes in elderly transplant recipients, the number of lung transplants in this group has been increasing. In 2024, the market value for senior citizen lung transplants is predicted to be $451.18 million. Although age is still a relative contraindication, the market is growing steadily. The improvement in overall medical care and the development of more targeted immunosuppressive drugs have made it possible for more senior citizens to receive lung transplants.
Table Global Lung Transplant Market Size by Application in 2024
Application | Market Size (M USD) 2024 |
|---|---|
Children | 136.53 |
Adults | 1139.98 |
Senior Citizens | 451.18 |
6 Global Lung Transplant Market Size by Region
North America: North America has been a major player in the global lung transplant market. In 2024, the market value in North America is forecasted to be $766.63 million. The United States, as the largest economy in the region, dominates the market. The high – level medical technology, well – developed healthcare system, and relatively high – income population contribute to the large market size.
For example, advanced surgical facilities and a large number of experienced medical professionals in North America ensure the high success rate of lung transplants. However, the COVID – 19 pandemic has had an impact on the region’s economy and healthcare system, which may pose challenges to the growth of the lung transplant market in the short term.
Europe: Europe is another important region in the global lung transplant market. In 2024, the market value is expected to be $576.41 million. Countries like Germany, the UK, France, and Italy have well – established healthcare systems and advanced medical research capabilities. Germany, with its world – class education system and a large number of well – trained medical staff, has a significant share in the European lung transplant market. However, the economic slowdown caused by the COVID – 19 pandemic has affected the investment in healthcare and may limit the growth of the lung transplant market to some extent.
Asia – Pacific: The Asia – Pacific region has shown rapid growth in the lung transplant market. In 2024, the market value is projected to be $245.53 million. China, in particular, has been playing an increasingly important role. The large population base and the continuous improvement of medical technology in China have led to a growing demand for lung transplants. The Chinese government’s investment in healthcare infrastructure and the development of domestic medical device and pharmaceutical industries have also promoted the growth of the lung transplant market. Japan and South Korea also have advanced medical technologies and are gradually increasing their market shares in the region.
Middle East & Africa: In 2024, the market value in the Middle East & Africa region is estimated to be $40.94 million. Saudi Arabia and Israel are the major markets in this region. The high – income economies in the Middle East, such as Saudi Arabia, have the financial resources to invest in advanced medical technologies. However, the region also faces challenges such as the impact of geopolitical issues and the relatively underdeveloped medical infrastructure in some areas. The spread of the COVID – 19 pandemic has further complicated the situation, affecting the normal operation of the healthcare system and the development of the lung transplant market.
South America: The South American lung transplant market is also growing steadily. In 2024, the market value is expected to be $98.18 million. Brazil, as the largest economy in the region, has a relatively large market share. The region has been making efforts to improve its medical technology and increase the number of lung transplant surgeries. However, economic instability and the impact of the COVID – 19 pandemic on the healthcare system have also affected the growth rate of the market.
Figure Global Lung Transplant Market Size (M USD) by Region in 2024
7 Global Lung Transplant Market Analysis by Major Players
Astellas Pharma
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
Astellas Pharma is a leading global pharmaceutical company headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Established in 2005 through the merger of two pharmaceutical giants, Yamanouchi Pharmaceutical and Fujisawa Pharmaceutical, Astellas has quickly risen to prominence in the global healthcare sector. The company operates worldwide, with a strong presence in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. Astellas is known for its commitment to innovative research and development, focusing on areas such as immunology, oncology, and neuroscience.
Astellas Pharma’s business strategy revolves around creating value through innovative medicines and therapies. The company invests heavily in R&D to develop novel treatments for unmet medical needs. In the context of lung transplantation, Astellas offers a range of immunosuppressive drugs designed to prevent organ rejection. Their products are backed by rigorous clinical research and are marketed globally, ensuring accessibility to patients in need.
Products:
Astellas Pharma’s flagship product in the lung transplant market is Graceptor (tacrolimus extended-release tablets). Graceptor is an immunosuppressive agent that helps prevent organ rejection in transplant patients. It is designed to be taken once daily, offering a more convenient dosing regimen compared to traditional twice-daily formulations. This product has significantly improved patient compliance and outcomes in lung transplant recipients. Additionally, Astellas continues to explore new indications and formulations to enhance its portfolio in transplantation medicine.
Terumo
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
Terumo Corporation is a global leader in medical device manufacturing, with a history dating back to 1921. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Terumo operates through a network of 82 sales offices and 24 production facilities worldwide. The company is renowned for its expertise in cardiac and vascular specialties, hospital products, and home healthcare solutions. Terumo’s commitment to innovation and quality has positioned it as a trusted name in the medical device industry.
Terumo’s business strategy focuses on delivering high-quality medical devices that improve patient outcomes and enhance healthcare delivery. The company’s product portfolio spans a wide range of medical specialties, including cardiovascular surgery, oncology, and critical care. In the lung transplant market, Terumo is particularly known for its advanced perfusion systems, which play a crucial role in organ preservation and transplantation.
Products:
Terumo’s key product in the lung transplant market is the Terumo® Advanced Perfusion System 1. This state-of-the-art heart-lung machine is designed to provide optimal organ preservation during transplant procedures. The system features a compact base, advanced cardioplegia delivery options, and a high-resolution central control monitor. These features ensure that surgical teams can deliver the highest quality care, leading to better patient outcomes. Terumo’s continuous investment in R&D ensures that its products remain at the forefront of medical technology.
Novartis
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
Novartis is a multinational pharmaceutical company headquartered in Basel, Switzerland. Established in 1996 through the merger of Ciba-Geigy and Sandoz, Novartis has become a global leader in healthcare innovation. The company operates in over 150 countries and employs more than 100,000 people worldwide. Novartis is renowned for its commitment to developing transformative treatments in areas such as oncology, immunology, and neuroscience.
Novartis’ business strategy emphasizes innovation and digital transformation to create groundbreaking therapies. The company invests heavily in R&D to develop new drugs and improve existing treatments. In the lung transplant market, Novartis focuses on providing advanced immunosuppressive agents that enhance patient outcomes and reduce the risk of organ rejection. Novartis’ global presence ensures that its products are accessible to patients worldwide.
Products:
Novartis’ key product in the lung transplant market is Certican™ (everolimus). This selective immunosuppressive agent is designed to prevent acute rejection and preserve pulmonary function in lung transplant patients. Certican™ has demonstrated superior efficacy compared to traditional immunosuppressive drugs, making it a preferred choice for many transplant centers. Novartis continues to explore new formulations and indications to further enhance its position in the transplantation market.