UAE Compression Therapy Market Analysis

UAE Compression Therapy Market Executive Summary

UAE Compression Therapy Market was valued at $19 Mn in 2022 and is estimated to reach $32 Mn in 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.6% during the forecast period.

Compression therapy is a medical procedure commonly utilized on limbs to enhance blood circulation and reduce swelling. It is often employed in the treatment of conditions like lymphedema, venous disorders, and certain types of edemas. The primary objective is to enhance the flow of blood in the veins, facilitating the return of blood to the heart. This helps prevent the accumulation of fluid in the tissues, especially when swelling is a result of fluid retention. Depending on the severity of the condition and the individual's specific needs, compression therapy can take various forms, such as elastic stockings, sleeves, or bandages. Techniques like compression wraps involve the use of multiple layers of bandages to provide graduated compression, while intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) employs a device to mimic natural muscle contractions, assisting in venous return. To determine the most suitable technique and compression level for a particular case, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider, especially when developing comprehensive treatment plans for issues like poor circulation, swelling, or fluid retention.

In Dubai, the prevalence of Cerebral Venous Thrombosis (CVT) stands at an average frequency of 6.6 cases per 100,000 population, a rate higher than reported in Western countries. This elevated prevalence is thought to be influenced by the hot climate and associated risks of dehydration in the region. Moreover, venous disorders are notably common in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with approximately 31% of the Middle East population susceptible to varicose veins. Lifestyle factors contribute significantly to this high prevalence, as prolonged periods of sitting or standing, physical inactivity, and obesity are widespread across the region. Additionally, genetic predisposition may play a role, with certain populations in the Middle East having a heightened susceptibility to venous disorders. The climate, characterized by hot temperatures, further exacerbates venous issues, creating a complex interplay of factors influencing the prevalence of such conditions in the UAE.

Sigvaris and Medi are leading the way in smart clothing innovation with their compression socks and stockings that have sensors built in to track temperature, pressure, and other variables. This technological integration allows for remote patient monitoring and personalized compression therapy. At the same time, material science is making tremendous progress thanks to the development of new materials like microfibers and breathable textiles. The ultimate goal of these developments is to improve compression garment comfort and efficacy, which will improve user experience overall and therapy compliance.

Market Dynamics

Market Growth Drivers

Rising Prevalence of Venous Disorders: The compression therapy market is fuelled by the surge in venous disorders, driven by prevalent factors such as a hot climate, prolonged sitting/standing, obesity, and genetic predisposition. This results in an increased demand for compression therapy as a solution, propelling market growth.

Lifestyle Changes and Risk Factors: The compression therapy market is driven by lifestyle changes, such as reduced physical activity, prolonged sitting, and obesity, due to growing urbanization. These factors increase the demand for compression therapy, especially for preventive purposes, as people seek solutions to address health risks associated with their changing lifestyles.

Technological Advancements: Technological advancements, such as smart socks, app-controlled pumps, and 3D-scanned custom garments, drive growth in the compression therapy market by enhancing user experience, comfort, and compliance.

Market Restraints

Stigma and Social Perception: Negative social perceptions and stigma surrounding compression therapy hinder the market. To overcome this restraint, promoting positive messages and raising awareness about the benefits of compression therapy is essential.

Patient Compliance: The market for compression therapy is limited by certain clothing items that cause discomfort after prolonged use, which may cause patients to stop using the therapy. One obstacle to compliance is the difficult process of putting on and taking off these garments, particularly for elderly or dexterously challenged individuals. Furthermore, patients may be less motivated to use compression therapy consistently due to its preventive and long-term nature, which would impede its widespread adoption.

Alternative Treatment Options: The availability and preference for alternative treatments in the compression therapy market act as a restraint. If individuals choose other options based on factors like perceived effectiveness or comfort, it hinders the widespread adoption of compression therapy products, limiting market growth.

Healthcare Policies and Regulatory Landscape

In the UAE, the management of healthcare policies and regulatory supervision for therapeutic drugs is primarily undertaken by key entities such as the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP), Health Authority Abu Dhabi (HAAD), Dubai Health Authority (DHA), Emirates Health Services Establishment (EHSE), and the Pharmaceutical Services Department (PSD). MOHAP, serving as a central regulatory authority, plays a crucial role in creating and enforcing healthcare policies to guarantee the safety, effectiveness, and quality of pharmaceuticals. Additionally, regional health authorities like HAAD and DHA oversee healthcare services, including drug regulations, within their respective emirates. EHSE contributes to the formulation of federal-level regulations, while PSD, operating under MOHAP, concentrates on activities related to pharmaceuticals. The Centralized Procurement Office (CPO) is responsible for acquiring pharmaceuticals for public healthcare facilities and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

• Medi France
• Sigvaris
• Juzo
• Bauerfeind
• Jobst
• Lympha Press
• FLA Orthopedics
• Al-Johaifa Medical
• Nahdi Pharmacy
• AstraZeneca