Japan Clinical Nutrition for Chronic Kidney Diseases Market Analysis

Japan Clinical Nutrition for Chronic Kidney Diseases Market Executive Summary

Japan Clinical Nutrition for Chronic Kidney Diseases Market was valued at $97.60 Mn in 2023 and is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 6.53% from 2023 to 2030, to $151.90 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) is prevalent in Japan, with estimates indicating a crude prevalence of 63.1 per 1000 persons and an age-adjusted prevalence of 71.8 per 1000 persons. This represents a notable increase over the past decade. Despite high awareness and over 95% of individuals seeking medical services for CKD, formal diagnostic coding for the disease was recorded in only 23.2% of cases.

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 other

Market Dynamics

Market Growth Drivers

High Prevalence of CKD: Japan faces a significant burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD) driven by an aging population, diabetes, hypertension, and lifestyle factors, with estimates suggesting 13% to 23% prevalence among adults aged 20 and above. This underscores the demand for tailored clinical nutrition solutions to manage CKD effectively.

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: Japan 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 Japan 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

In Japan, the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare (MHLW) oversees a rigorous regulatory framework for clinical nutrition products aimed at managing chronic kidney disease (CKD). This includes establishing strict guidelines for the manufacturing, labeling, and approval of Foods for Special Dietary Uses (FOSDU), crucial for CKD management. The Food Special Uses Labeling System (FOSUL) categorizes and regulates these products, ensuring they meet specific nutrient composition standards and clearly indicate their intended use for CKD management. Scientific evaluation by the National Institute of Health Sciences (NIHS) supports MHLW in making regulatory decisions, ensuring products are safe and effective.

Regarding reimbursement, access to CKD clinical nutrition products in Japan depends on healthcare insurance coverage. The National Health Insurance (NHI) may cover consultations with dietitians and certain FOSDU products when medically necessary for CKD treatment, subject to demonstrating efficacy and medical need. Elderly patients may find coverage under Japan's Long-Term Care Insurance for ongoing nutritional support, potentially including FOSDU products or home enteral nutrition services. Private health insurance plans also offer varying levels of coverage for CKD-related nutritional interventions. Overall, while Japan's regulatory system ensures high standards for clinical nutrition, reimbursement policies under different insurance schemes are pivotal in ensuring patient access to these specialized products for managing CKD.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

Here are some of the major key players in the Japan 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