China Asthma and COPD Therapeutics Market Analysis

China Asthma and COPD Therapeutics Market Analysis: Executive Summary

The China Asthma and COPD Therapeutics Market was valued at around US $2.68 Bn in 2022 and is projected to reach US $4.51 Bn in 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.70% during the forecast period.

Both asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are long-term respiratory disorders that affect the airways and cause breathing difficulties. The primary symptoms of asthma are inflammation and constriction of the airways, which are frequently brought on by irritants, allergens, or physical exercise. Wheezing, dyspnea, chest tightness, and coughing are some of the symptoms. Respiratory infections and a family history of respiratory disorders are examples of risk factors. On the other hand, COPD is characterized by emphysema and chronic bronchitis, which block the airways. One of the main risk factors for COPD is smoking, which can cause symptoms like weariness, increased mucus production, and a persistent cough. Both disorders are treated using bronchodilators to reduce tightness of the airways and anti-inflammatory drugs to treat inflammation. Pharmaceutical firms such as GlaxoSmithKline, AstraZeneca, and Boehringer Ingelheim frequently provide treatments for COPD and asthma.

Approximately 100 million individuals in China are affected by COPD, and over 30 million currently live with asthma. These estimates directly correspond to the increased incidence of smoking in the population. The market is being driven by factors such as the rising prevalence of asthma and COPD, rising healthcare expenditure, advancements in therapeutics, and others. However, high treatment costs for long term management, health system challenges, and a complex regulatory landscape are a few factors that limit the market's potential.

Market Dynamics

Market Growth Drivers

Rising prevalence: China is home to nearly 100 million individuals affected by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), constituting almost a quarter of all global COPD cases. Approximately 30 million people in China suffer from Asthma. China possesses the largest population of smokers globally, totaling around 350 million individuals. Smoking stands as the predominant risk factor for COPD. The country's swift industrialization has resulted in significant air pollution, further intensifying the challenges associated with COPD. This translates into a pool of patients requiring regular treatments.

Rising healthcare expenditure: The growing economic prosperity in China is translating into heightened healthcare expenditures and a greater awareness of chronic diseases such as COPD and asthma. Patients are taking a more proactive approach to managing their health, actively seeking various treatment options. Government-led initiatives that advocate for early diagnosis and treatment are additionally contributing to the market's growth.

Advancements in Therapeutics: The emergence of novel and inventive medications, including long-acting inhaled drugs and biologics, is providing enhanced and more effective treatment choices for COPD and asthma. The expansion of the market is propelled by intensified research and development activities conducted by both local and international pharmaceutical companies. A heightened emphasis on combination therapies and personalized medicine strategies is generating additional prospects within the market.

Market Restraints

High treatment costs: The cost of COPD treatment in China varies from $1,000 to $2,600 USD annually, posing a substantial financial challenge for patients, particularly those residing in rural areas or with limited incomes. This financial burden can impede access to necessary medications and devices, thereby hindering effective disease management.

Health system challenges: Quality healthcare facilities and specialized medical professionals are not readily accessible, particularly in rural areas, resulting in delayed diagnosis, insufficient treatment, and suboptimal patient outcomes. China struggles with a shortage of pulmonologists and other specialists with expertise in COPD management, causing bottlenecks in the processes of diagnosis, treatment, and patient education, thereby impeding effective disease control.

Complex regulatory landscape: The process of approving new drugs and devices for COPD in China can be protracted and intricate, leading to delays in their accessibility to patients. This may impede the adoption of innovative therapies and decelerate the growth of the market.

Others: COPD is significantly influenced by smoking, and the high prevalence of smoking in China, especially among men, is a major risk factor. This contributes to the elevated occurrence of COPD and presents a substantial obstacle for market expansion.

Notable Updates

April 2023, Nuance Pharma reported the commencement of dosing for the first patient in the ENHANCE - China Phase III Trial for efficacy of Ensifentrine, the company's innovative solution for COPD. Ensifentrine is a groundbreaking, selective dual inhibitor that integrates bronchodilator and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory activities within a single compound, marking a unique approach in China.

May 2020, AstraZeneca's Bevespi Aerosphere (glycopyrronium/formoterol fumarate) has received approval in China’s NMPA for use as a maintenance treatment to alleviate symptoms in individuals with COPD, encompassing chronic bronchitis and/or emphysema.

Healthcare Policies and Regulatory Landscape

In China, the healthcare policy and regulatory framework are supervised by various crucial authorities and agencies. The primary entity overseeing healthcare regulations and licensing is the National Health Commission (NHC). The NHC is instrumental in formulating national health policies, coordinating medical and healthcare reform, and overseeing healthcare services across the country. To secure a license for healthcare products in China, adherence to regulations established by these authorities is imperative. Companies aiming for registration and marketing authorization for pharmaceuticals and medical devices must obtain approval from the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA).

This procedure involves the submission of technical and scientific data to validate the safety, quality, and efficacy of the product. China's healthcare policy and regulatory environment encompass multiple authorities, with the NHC playing a pivotal role in healthcare product regulation, offering diverse opportunities for companies operating in both the public and private healthcare sectors.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

• AstraZeneca
• GlaxoSmithKline
• Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals
• Novartis
• Merck & Co
• Pfizer
• Teva Pharmaceuticals
• Yuhan Corporation
• Hengan Group
• Luoxin Pharmaceutical Group