France Age-Related Macular Degeneration Therapeutics Market Analysis

France Age-Related Macular Degeneration Therapeutics Market Analysis: Executive Summary

The France Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Therapeutics Market is at around US $297 Mn in 2022 and is projected to reach US $546 Mn in 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.90% during the forecast period.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye condition primarily impacting older individuals, potentially leading to significant vision impairment. It targets the macula, responsible for central vision, making activities like reading challenging. AMD presents in two primary forms: dry AMD and wet AMD. Symptoms include distorted vision, difficulty seeing clearly, and a gradual decline in vision. Dry AMD is more common but advances more slowly. Conversely, wet AMD, though less widespread, is more severe and is characterized by abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the macula. Treatment options include anti-VEGF therapy with medications like Lucentis, Vabysmo, Avastin (manufactured by Genentech), and Eylea (by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals), as well as laser therapy and nutritional supplements such as zinc and copper.

It is estimated that the prevalence of AMD is around 1% in the older age group in France, which is lower than the global average. However, the aging population above the age of 65 that is susceptible to AMD is expected to increase by the year 2030. Thus, the prevalence is directly proportional to age. The market is therefore driven by major factors like an increase in the aging population and the subsequent increase in prevalence, increased diagnosis and awareness, and government initiatives fueling the therapeutics industry. However, disparities in the healthcare system and the high cost of treatments like gene therapy and laser surgery, which are implemented in response to demand, limit the market's potential.

The market leader in France is Roche, with Lucentis earning a market share of around 40%, which is closely followed by Novartis for both Lucentis and a low-cost alternative, Avastin, with a share of about 25% in the market.

Market Dynamics

Market Growth Drivers

Surge in prevalence of AMD: France is experiencing a growing elderly population, with the segment aged over 65 projected to reach around 25% by 2030 and about 30% by 2050. The prevalence of AMD in the age group 50 years and older was estimated at 1% in France. This demographic is particularly vulnerable to AMD, resulting in a larger pool of patients and enhanced market demand. Additionally, advancements in healthcare have contributed to increased lifespans, exposing individuals to the risk of AMD for an extended period of time.

Increased awareness and diagnosis: Government initiatives and outreach efforts boost public awareness regarding AMD and its early detection, prompting timely diagnosis and the initiation of treatment. Technological progress in eye examinations and imaging techniques, along with genetic testing, enables earlier and more precise diagnoses, contributing to market expansion.

Economic growth: The expanding healthcare budget in France, with a per capita spending of around $6000, enables greater investments in AMD research, the development of treatments, and accessibility programs. The extension of insurance coverage for advanced therapies, such as certain anti-VEGF drugs and gene therapy options, enhances patient access and market penetration.

Market Restraints

Health system disparities: Inequities in the level and type of healthcare are apparent in different regions of Mexico. Specialized ophthalmologists and treatment facilities are predominantly located in major cities, creating a disparity in healthcare services, and leaving rural areas underserved. Although France has a universal healthcare system, navigating the process to secure complete reimbursement for specific advanced therapies, such as gene therapy, is complex and time-consuming, potentially hindering their widespread adoption.

High cost of treatments: The typical approach to treating wet AMD, involving anti-VEGF injections, is associated with considerable expense. The cost per dose of Lucentis solution is exceptionally high for patients, imposing a significant financial strain on both the healthcare system and individual patients, thereby restricting market penetration.

Healthcare Policies and Regulatory Landscape

France's healthcare regulatory environment is marked by a robust and comprehensive framework overseeing the licensing and distribution of healthcare products, encompassing pharmaceuticals and medical devices. The French National Authority for the Safety of Medicines and Medical Devices (ANSM) holds the primary responsibility for regulating these products, ensuring adherence to high standards of safety, efficacy, and quality.

The process of obtaining licensure in France involves submitting a marketing authorization application to the French Medicines Agency (Agence Nationale des Medicines et des Produits de Santé), which evaluates the safety and efficacy of medicines and medical devices. Companies must meet all sanitary registration requirements to sell their products to the government, and it is advisable for foreign companies to have technical staff and replacement parts available in France. For new entrants to the French market, understanding the regulatory landscape and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations is crucial.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

• F. Hoffman-La-Roche Ltd
• Regeneron Pharmaceuticals
• Novartis AG
• Apellis Pharmaceuticals
• Neurotech Pharmaceuticals
• Bayer
• Pfizer Inc
• Genetech
• Kanghong Pharma
• Bausch Health Companies, Inc