India Clinical Nutrition for Chronic Kidney Diseases Market Analysis

India Clinical Nutrition for Chronic Kidney Diseases Market Executive Summary

India Clinical Nutrition for Chronic Kidney Diseases Market was valued at $28.60 Mn in 2023 and is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 9.03% from 2023 to 2030, to $52.30 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.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in India presents a significant public health challenge, it's estimated that over 100,000 new cases of End Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD), necessitating dialysis or transplantation, are diagnosed annually. Overall, India carries a substantial burden of CKD, ranking alongside China with Mns affected, underscoring the healthcare and economic implications of managing CKD and its end-stage manifestations in the region.

The market therefore is driven by significant factors like rising CKD prevalence, increased awareness, and technological advancements. However, the high cost of products, uneven distribution of specialists, and limited reimbursement 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

Rising CKD Prevalence: India is grappling with a rising burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD), driven by escalating rates of diabetes and hypertension, which are primary risk factors for the condition. A study in southern India revealed a CKD prevalence of 9.94%, highlighting the increasing need for specialized nutritional solutions to manage CKD and enhance health outcomes in affected populations.

Increased Awareness: There is a rising awareness among healthcare professionals and patients about the crucial role clinical nutrition plays in managing CKD. This heightened awareness drives demand for CKD-specific nutritional products as more healthcare providers recommend these solutions and more patients seek to incorporate them into their treatment plans.

Technological Advancements: The advent of tele-nutrition services is transforming access to nutritional consultations, particularly for CKD patients in remote areas. Tele-nutrition allows patients to receive guidance from qualified dietitians without the need for physical visits, improving adherence to dietary recommendations. Additionally, the development of new, palatable, and convenient CKD nutritional products can enhance patient compliance and drive market growth.

Market Restraints

High Cost of Products: Specialized renal nutrition products are often expensive, posing a significant hurdle for many patients. The high cost can deter patients from consistently using these products, affecting their ability to manage CKD effectively and placing additional strain on healthcare resources.

Uneven Distribution of Specialists: There is an uneven distribution of qualified dietitians and nephrologists with expertise in CKD nutrition across India. This disparity is especially pronounced in rural areas, where access to specialized care is limited. This lack of accessible expertise can hinder the effective management of CKD through nutritional interventions.

Limited Reimbursement: Insurance coverage for CKD-specific clinical nutrition products in India is limited, posing a significant barrier for patients, especially those from lower-income backgrounds. Without adequate reimbursement, many patients may find it difficult to afford the specialized nutritional products they need, limiting market growth.

Regulatory Landscape and Reimbursement Scenario

The Indian regulatory landscape for CKD-specific clinical nutrition is overseen by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI). FSSAI regulates the safety, quality, composition, labeling, and claims of specialized dietary products, including those for CKD management. DCGI oversees medical devices and certain nutraceuticals with therapeutic claims, encompassing products classified as medical foods or those claiming to treat or prevent CKD. FSSAI mandates specific labeling requirements for dietary products, ensuring they mention suitability and limitations for CKD patients. Additionally, DCGI's guidelines for medical devices apply to specialized feeding tubes or pumps used for CKD patients.

The reimbursement scenario for CKD clinical nutrition in India is currently limited. Public health insurance schemes like Ayushman Bharat mainly cover hospitalization and critical care, rarely extending to CKD nutritional products. Private insurance plans may offer limited coverage for nutritional supplements or dietitian consultations, but specific coverage for CKD nutrition remains uncommon. Consequently, patients often face significant out-of-pocket expenses, highlighting the need for improved insurance coverage and support for CKD-specific nutritional interventions.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

Here are some of the major key players in the India 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