China Clinical Nutrition for Chronic Kidney Diseases Market Analysis

China Clinical Nutrition for Chronic Kidney Diseases Market Executive Summary

China Clinical Nutrition for Chronic Kidney Diseases Market was valued at $126.20 Mn in 2023 and is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 7.53% from 2023 to 2030, to $209.80 Mn by 2030. 

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a gradual loss of kidney function over at least three months, often progressing silently due to the absence of early symptoms. The main causes include diabetes and high blood pressure, though family history and other conditions also contribute. As CKD advances through stages, it may necessitate dialysis or a kidney transplant and is associated with increased risks of heart disease, stroke, and bone issues. Management focuses on slowing disease progression, symptom management, and preventing complications through dietary changes, medications, and blood pressure control. Key dietary adjustments include moderating protein intake, managing fluid levels, controlling electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and phosphorus, and ensuring sufficient calorie intake to avoid malnutrition. Early detection and screening are crucial for those at risk.

In China, Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) presents a substantial health burden, with an estimated 150.5 Mn cases in 2020, affecting 10.6% of the population. The disease also contributed to 196,726 deaths that year, reflecting a mortality rate of 13.8 per 100,000 people. Age is a critical factor, with higher CKD prevalence among older age groups, particularly those aged 85-89, and an exponential rise in mortality rates after 60-64 years of age.

The market therefore is driven by significant factors like the high prevalence of CKD, increasing awareness and education, and technological advancements. However, the scarcity of qualified dietitians, the high cost of treatment, and limited healthcare budgets restrict the growth and potential of the market.

Prominent players in this field are Abbott Nutrition, Pfizer Inc., Bayer AG, and Nestlé Health Science among others.

Market Dynamics

Market Growth Drivers

High Prevalence of CKD: China experiences a high prevalence of chronic kidney disease, globally affecting 850 Mn people, driven by an aging population, diabetes, hypertension, and lifestyle changes. This demands clinical nutrition solutions tailored for CKD management.

Increasing Awareness and Education: There is growing awareness among healthcare professionals and patients about the importance of nutrition in managing CKD. Education initiatives and awareness campaigns contribute to greater adoption of clinical nutrition therapies, enhancing market growth.

Technological Advancements: Ongoing advancements in medical technology and nutrition science lead to the development of innovative products and solutions for CKD management. These advancements improve efficacy and patient compliance with clinical nutrition interventions.

Market Restraints

Scarcity of Qualified Dietitians: China faces challenges in the availability of qualified dietitians with specialized expertise in CKD nutrition. This scarcity limits the accessibility of tailored nutritional guidance for CKD patients, hindering their ability to receive personalized care and dietary management.

High Cost of Treatment: The cost of specialized nutritional products and services for CKD management may be prohibitive for some segments of the population, particularly in rural or low-income areas where access to healthcare resources is limited.

Healthcare Inequalities: Disparities in healthcare access between urban and rural areas in China may hinder the equitable distribution and adoption of CKD clinical nutrition solutions. Improving healthcare infrastructure and addressing these disparities are crucial for market growth.

Regulatory Landscape and Reimbursement Scenario

China's regulatory landscape for CKD-specific clinical nutrition is overseen by key bodies including the National Health Commission (NHC), the China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA), and the National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC). The NHC sets national healthcare policies and oversees the approval of medical devices and nutraceuticals, including those designed for CKD management. The CFDA regulates food products for special medical purposes, establishing stringent standards for safety, quality, labeling, and claims related to CKD nutritional products. Working in tandem, these bodies ensure compliance with the Food Safety Law and specific regulations on special medical use formula milk for adults, crucial for ensuring the safety and efficacy of enteral nutrition products used by CKD patients. While guidelines for registering medical foods are still in development, they are expected to streamline the approval process for specialized nutritional products aimed at managing chronic diseases like CKD.

In terms of reimbursement, China's healthcare system is evolving with limited coverage currently provided by basic health insurance plans, which focus primarily on essential hospitalization and medications. Supplementary medical insurance may offer partial coverage for specific CKD clinical nutrition products or consultations with dietitians, although comprehensive reimbursement for these specialized interventions is not widespread. Pilot programs initiated by the government in select regions are exploring the integration of medical nutrition into chronic disease management, indicating potential pathways for expanded reimbursement policies in the future. These initiatives highlight ongoing efforts to address healthcare needs related to CKD through enhanced access to specialized nutritional support across China.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

Here are some of the major key players in the China Clinical Nutrition for Chronic Kidney Diseases Market

• Abbott Nutrition
• Pfizer Inc.
• Bayer AG
• Nestlé Health Science
• Otsuka Pharmaceutical
• Mead Johnson & Company, LLC
• Danone S.A.
• Victus, Inc.
• B. Braun Melsungen AG
• Fresenius Kabi AG