Kenya Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Market

Kenya Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Market Executive Summary

Kenya Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Market valued at $3 Mn in 2022, projected to reach $5 Mn by 2030 with a 6.1% CAGR.

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is a medical procedure utilizing a pacemaker to correct the heart's rhythm through a minimally invasive surgical approach. Implanted beneath the skin, the CRT pacemaker works to synchronize the timing between the upper and lower heart chambers, promoting coordination between the left and right sides of the heart. This intervention proves particularly advantageous for individuals experiencing heart failure, effectively addressing issues such as inadequate pumping and fluid retention in the lungs and legs resulting from the asynchronous beating of the heart's lower chambers. In instances of severe heart rhythm irregularities, the CRT therapy may be complemented by the addition of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). The CRT device connects wires from the pacemaker to both sides of the heart, employing biventricular pacing to ensure synchronized contractions and optimize overall heart function.

Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) is a significant public health challenge in Kenya, with 11,972 reported deaths, comprising 4.54% of total mortality. Kenya ranks 144th globally with an age-adjusted Death Rate of 72.70 per 100,000. The premature cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality rate is 8%, contributing to an overall CVD mortality rate of 13.8% and 6.3% of Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs). Atrial fibrillation (AF) and atrial flutter prevalence is 0.1%, while rheumatic heart disease (RHD) stands at 1.2%, contributing to 0.14% of all deaths. CVD accounts for 50% of hospital admissions and 55% of hospital deaths, with RHD contributing to 32% of adult heart failure cases. Increasing tobacco use, particularly among youth, highlights the need for targeted public health interventions to address modifiable risks and raise awareness about cardiovascular health in Kenya.

Abbott's Amplatzer ICD, with the smallest MRI-conditional CRT-D lead globally, has gained FDA approval, enhancing cardiac care with compact size and MRI compatibility. Medtronic's Envision MRI CRT-D, the first approved for seamless full-body 1.5T and 3T MR scans, marks a significant advancement, eliminating repositioning needs. These developments highlight the industry's dedication to advancing cardiac device technology, promising improved patient care and diagnostic flexibility.

Market Dynamics

Market Growth Drivers

Escalating Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) Incidence: In Kenya, the prevalence of coronary heart disease (CHD) presents a notable public health concern, accounting for 11,972 reported deaths, constituting 4.54% of the overall mortality rate. CVDs emerge as the predominant cause of death in the country, with heart failure playing a significant role in this health challenge.

Demographic Shift Towards an Aging Population: Kenya is currently experiencing a demographic shift, with individuals aged 60 and above comprising approximately 6% of the total population, totaling around 2.7 Mn people. Notably, the majority (55%) of this demographic consists of women. As Kenya's population ages, there is an increased susceptibility to heart-related issues, signaling a potential rise in demand for Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT).

Advancements in Technology: The integration of miniaturized devices, wireless monitoring systems, and enhanced therapeutic options holds the potential to attract a broader patient base and garner increased interest from healthcare providers. These technological advancements offer promising avenues for addressing cardiovascular health issues and improving patient care in Kenya.

Market Restraints

Shortage of Trained Specialists: The scarcity of well-trained specialists, including cardiologists, electrophysiologists, and technicians proficient in CRT procedures, acts as a bottleneck, limiting its broader adoption and optimal utilization. Addressing this challenge necessitates investment in training programs and efforts to attract more specialists to the field.

High Cost of CRT Devices and Procedures: The considerable expense associated with CRT devices and implantation procedures, often reaching substantial amounts, poses a significant obstacle for patients, particularly those with limited insurance coverage or financial means. Despite the acknowledged long-term cost-effectiveness of CRT, the initial high upfront costs can hinder initial adoption and constrain market expansion.

Uneven Reimbursement Policies: Disparities in reimbursement policies add another layer of complexity, with some government and private insurance plans covering CRT procedures. However, inconsistencies in coverage policies and restrictions on the number of procedures per year still curtail patient access. Advocating for more comprehensive and standardized insurance coverage for CRT across various plans is essential for fostering wider adoption and enhancing overall patient outcomes.

Healthcare Policies and Regulatory Landscape

In Kenya, the primary regulatory authority responsible for overseeing healthcare policies and managing the registration, licensing, and quality control of therapeutic drugs is the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB). Collaborating with the PPB, the Ministry of Health (MOH) works towards ensuring the safety and effectiveness of pharmaceutical products. The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) contributes to health research and may offer scientific insights. Regulations set by both the PPB and the MOH govern clinical trials for therapeutic drugs, with manufacturers being mandated to adhere to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards. Furthermore, the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) plays a pivotal role in healthcare financing and reimbursement policies, influencing considerations related to certain drugs.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

• Abbott
• Biotronik
• Boston Scientific
• Medtronic
• St. Jude Medical
• Sorin Group
• Siemens Healthineers
• Philips Healthcare
• GE Healthcare
• Esaote