France Brain Cancer Therapeutics Market

France Brain Cancer Therapeutics Market Executive Summary

France Brain Cancer Therapeutics Market valued at $63 Mn in 2022, projected to reach $132 Mn by 2030 with a 9.6% CAGR.

The irregular growth of brain cells acts as an indicator for brain cancer, with these cells displaying characteristics that can be either cancerous (malignant) or non-cancerous (benign). Despite the precise cause of brain cancer remaining elusive, identified risk factors encompass exposure to ionizing radiation and a family history of brain tumors. Typical symptoms linked to a brain tumor include headaches, gradual sensory deterioration, problems with balance, speech difficulties, and hearing challenges. The presentation of these symptoms varies based on factors like the size, location, and growth rate of the tumor. Treatment modalities for brain cancer are contingent on the type, location, and size of the tumor, with commonly employed approaches encompassing radiosurgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, and the application of carmustine implants.

In France, the estimated annual incidence of primary malignant brain tumors is around 5,000 cases, constituting approximately 70.9% of the overall prevalence of primary central nervous system (CNS) tumors, encompassing both benign and malignant forms. Gliomas are the most prevalent form, accounting for 42.8% of all CNS tumors, meningiomas, which are usually benign, make up a considerable portion of the tumors, contributing 24.1%. Every year, the nation reports about 5,400 new cases of brain tumors, which accounts for 1.3% of all new cancer cases. 1,800 of these cases are benign tumors, while 3,600 are malignant tumors. The median age at diagnosis for glioblastoma is 64 years old, and the yearly age-adjusted incidence ranges from 0.59 to 3.69 per 100,000 people.

Roche France has received permission for the NAVIFY test, a companion diagnostic tool intended to identify individuals with glioblastoma who may benefit from Venatum (onvansertib), their targeted medication. With a more focused approach to treatment and the possibility of better results for glioblastoma patients, this approval represents a major advancement in personalized medicine.

The Optune system, a tumour-treating field therapy, was approved by the European Commission in October 2023 for use with standard chemo-radiotherapy to treat newly diagnosed glioblastoma. Novocure, the company responsible for developing this technology, has established a presence in France.

Market Dynamics

Market Growth Drivers

Increasing Incidence of Brain Cancer: One major factor propelling the market's expansion is the increase in reported cases of brain cancer, including aggressive types like glioblastoma multiforme. In France, it is approximated that there are about 5,000 cases of primary malignant brain tumors reported annually. As the incidence rates increase, there is a greater demand for effective treatment options.

Advancements in Research and Technology: Brain cancer treatment options and customized medicines have been developed as a result of ongoing breakthroughs in medical research and technology. Vorasidenib, a recently developed targeted therapy medication, has demonstrated promising outcomes in slowing the advancement of glioma, a brain cancer known for its gradual growth yet severe consequences. New medications and treatment modalities are being introduced, which is helping the market expand.

Increasing Awareness and Advocacy: Public awareness of brain cancer is on the rise, thanks to media campaigns and advocacy initiatives. This heightened awareness contributes to early detection and a growing demand for diverse treatment options. Advocacy groups are actively striving to enhance treatment accessibility and tackle issues impacting both patients and their families.

Market Restraints

Pricing and Reimbursement: The healthcare system in France is strictly regulated and includes central negotiations for drug costs. This poses a challenge for companies seeking higher prices for groundbreaking drugs, particularly in the early stages of their introduction. The inability of the French national health insurance system to automatically reimburse all brain cancer medications prevents patients from accessing certain therapies, particularly those that are thought to be rare or costly.

Regulatory Challenges: Strict regulatory processes and the protracted approval processes for novel drugs may impede the timely release of novel brain cancer treatments into the market. Challenges in the regulatory process have the potential to delay the accessibility of advanced drugs, impacting patients' timely access to cutting-edge medications.

Ethical and Safety Concerns: Concerns about the ethical ramifications and safety of specific treatment methods, particularly those incorporating experimental or advanced therapies, could influence the acceptance of these approaches in the market.

Healthcare Policies and Regulatory Landscape

In France, healthcare policies and the regulatory framework for treatment drugs are overseen by institutions such as the Haute Autorité de Santé (HAS), which assesses the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of healthcare interventions, and the French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety (ANSM), responsible for regulating and supervising the safety of medicines. The Pricing and Reimbursement Committee (CEPS) negotiates drug prices and ensures economic sustainability, while the Transparency Commission, under HAS, evaluates the therapeutic value of drugs and offers reimbursement recommendations. The French Social Security System plays a crucial role in funding healthcare, including drug reimbursement. Additionally, adherence to European standards is essential, requiring approval from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for marketing authorization. This collective framework aims to uphold stringent standards for drug safety, efficacy, and affordability within the context of the French healthcare system.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

• Roche
• Merck & Co.
• Bristol Myers Squibb
• Novartis
• Pfizer
• AstraZeneca
• Eli Lilly
• Sanofi
• Takeda Pharmaceutical
• AbbVie