Linear accelerators are medical devices used in radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer and non-malignant tumors. They are commonly used to treat cancers of the brain, lungs, breast, prostate, and more. Linear accelerators use microwaves to produce high-energy x-ray beams that are precisely shaped and focused on tumor locations. With technological advancements, modern linear accelerators allow for precise targeting of tumors with minimal exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. The global linear accelerators for radiation market is estimated to be valued at US$ 5 Billion in 2023 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 15% over the forecast period 2023-2033, as highlighted in a new report published by Coherent Market Insights.

Market Dynamics

The growing demand for cancer treatment: According to the World Health Organization, cancer is the second leading cause of death globally and was responsible for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020. Radiation therapy using linear accelerators plays a vital role in the treatment of over 50% of all cancer cases. Growing incidence of cancer worldwide is expected to significantly drive the demand for linear accelerators during the forecast period.

Government support for cancer care: Many governments are undertaking initiatives to expand cancer diagnostic and treatment facilities. For instance, the Indian government’s National Program for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke aims to strengthen cancer care infrastructure across the country. Increasing government support for cancer care is anticipated to boost the adoption of linear accelerators.

Segment Analysis

The linear accelerators for radiation market is dominated by the radiation therapy segment. It accounts for more than 80% of market share owing to its widespread application in the treatment of cancer using external beam radiotherapy. Radiation therapy segment utilizes linear accelerators to deliver high-energy x-ray or electron beams to effectively kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Within radiation therapy, linear accelerators find largest application in breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer and head & neck cancer treatments.

PEST Analysis

Political: Governments across countries are increasingly funding for cancer treatment infrastructure like radiotherapy centers. This is positively impacting the demand for linear accelerators from public hospitals and cancer institutes. Some countries also have favorable regulatory policies to encourage domestic production of medical devices like linear accelerators.
Economic: Rising healthcare expenditures on cancer globally is driving the market growth. High cost of linear accelerator systems also attracts significant sales revenue for key global players. Countries with large GDPs allocate higher healthcare budgets that include capital investments for medical equipment upgradation.
Social: Growing cancer incidence rates due to changing lifestyle patterns and increasing life expectancy is a key factor increasing the social need for effective cancer treatment options like radiotherapy using linear accelerators. This is translating to strong demand potential from end-users.
Technological: Continuous product innovation and development of advanced features in linear accelerators like image guided radiotherapy, volumetric modulated arc therapy are supporting the clinical adoption. System miniaturization and improved efficiency of newer linear accelerators is also attracting customers.

Key Takeaways

The global Linear Accelerators For Radiation Market Growth is expected to witness high growth in the coming years.

North America currently dominates the market owing to the large base of radiotherapy centers and favorable reimbursement policies for cancer treatment in countries like the US. The Asia Pacific region is projected to be the fastest growing regional market with countries like China, India and Japan emerging as high potential countries.

Key players operating in the linear accelerators for radiation market are Varian Medical Systems, Elekta AB, Accuray Incorporated. Key players are investing in technologies like flattening filter free linacs and universal linacs to strengthen their product portfolios. Players are also pursuing inorganic growth strategies like acquisitions to expand regional presence. For instance, Varian Medical acquired Cantel Medical’s medical division to enhance its portfolio of oncology oriented infection prevention products.

*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it