Saudi Arabia Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Market

Saudi Arabia Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Market Executive Summary

Saudi Arabia Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Market valued at $82 Mn in 2022, projected to reach $135 Mn by 2030 with a 6.5% CAGR.

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) utilizes a pacemaker to rectify the heart's rhythm through a minor surgical procedure. Implantation beneath the skin, the CRT pacemaker coordinates the timing between the upper (atria) and lower (ventricles) heart chambers, as well as synchronizing the left and right sides of the heart. This intervention is especially vital in cases of heart failure, where insufficient pumping leads to fluid accumulation in the lungs and legs due to the asynchronous beating of the two lower chambers (ventricles). Additionally, if severe heart rhythm issues are identified, a doctor may recommend an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), which can be combined with CRT therapy. The CRT device connects wires from the pacemaker to both sides of the heart, employing biventricular pacing to send electrical signals to the ventricles, ensuring coordinated contractions and optimizing overall heart function.

In the Middle East, nearly 1.35 Mn individuals receive heart failure therapy, with Saudi Arabia accounting for 320,000 cases. By 2023, this number may increase to over 455,222, with 32,200 new cases annually due to population growth and rising risk factors. Heart failure is a leading cause of non-communicable disease deaths in Saudi Arabia, comprising over 40% of fatalities in 2010. The annual economic impact of therapy and related consequences exceeds $1.92 Bn, with prevalent risk factors including high rates of diabetes, hypertension, and unhealthy lifestyles contributing to the problem.

Pharmaceutical companies like Novartis and Merck collaborate with Medtech firms such as Abbott and Medtronic to advance heart failure medications and therapies, even if they don't directly market the devices. Novartis and Abbott's partnership is exemplified by their joint study in Saudi Arabia, combining Entresto medicine with Abbott's CardioMEMS HF System. This collaboration demonstrates how pharmaceuticals and medical technology can be integrated to enhance therapeutic approaches in heart failure management, striving for personalized care.

Market Dynamics

Market Growth Drivers

Increasing Incidence of Heart Failure: Heart failure poses a notable healthcare challenge in Saudi Arabia, with projections indicating a prevalence of approximately 455,222 individuals by 2023. The expanding pool of potential patients is fuelling the need for CRT therapy. Common risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and unhealthy lifestyles are widespread, playing a significant role in the upsurge of heart failure occurrences.

Increased Awareness and Education: Healthcare organizations and patient advocacy groups are working to raise public knowledge about heart failure and treatment options like CRT using public health campaigns and educational initiatives. Improved patient understanding and knowledge may lead to early diagnosis, prompt therapies, and even superior overall results.

Technological Advancements: The increasing popularity of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) among both patients and physicians can be attributed to technological advancements. These include the development of smaller, more energy-efficient devices with prolonged battery life and advanced functionalities. Patient care is significantly enhanced through features such as remote monitoring and telemedicine capabilities, leading to better outcomes after implantation. The future outlook for CRT appears promising, especially with emerging technologies like leadless pacemakers and artificial intelligence-driven algorithms, indicating potential advancements in the field.

Market Restraints

High Cost of CRT Devices: The cost of CRT devices is considerable, varying from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars. For patients, especially those with limited financial resources or inadequate insurance coverage, this large cost may provide a major challenge. Patients may have significant out-of-pocket costs even with insurance, which deters them from seeking CRT therapy.

Limited Access to Specialists: The implantation of CRT devices demands specific skills and training. The scarcity of trained electrophysiologists and other specialists, especially in locations outside major cities, may hinder many patients' access to this therapy.

Reimbursement challenges: Although certain insurance plans in Saudi Arabia may include coverage for CRT, the policies regarding reimbursement can differ and might not encompass all device types or patient categories. This lack of clarity can pose challenges for patients and healthcare providers when navigating through treatment choices.

Healthcare Policies and Regulatory Landscape

In Saudi Arabia, the supervision of therapeutic medications is guided by essential healthcare regulations and regulatory authorities. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) functions as the primary regulatory body, ensuring the quality and safety of pharmaceuticals. Collaborating with the SFDA, the Ministry of Health (MOH) plays a role in shaping healthcare policies, with its Drug Sector overseeing pharmaceutical matters such as drug registration and pricing. The National Committee for Drug Control (NCDC) is responsible for coordinating efforts related to drug control, emphasizing the prudent use and safety of medications. The National Pharmacovigilance Centre (NPC) is tasked with monitoring pharmaceutical safety, while the Saudi Central Board for Accreditation of Healthcare Institutions (CBAHI) indirectly influences drug administration through the accreditation of healthcare institutions.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

• Medtronic
• Abbott
• Boston Scientific
• Johnson & Johnson
• Biotronik
• St. Jude Medical (now part of Abbott)
• LivaNova
• MicroPort
• Sorin Group
• Siemens Healthineers