Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is fast becoming one of the leading causes of vision loss globally. With the rapidly growing elderly population, the demand for effective AMD treatments is surging. New reports indicate the market for AMD solutions is projected to swell from $11.31 billion this year to around $19.72 billion by 2032. This remarkable growth is largely driven by companies like Novartis and Regeneron, who are paving the way with innovative treatments, particularly for wet AMD (neovascular AMD).
The stark reality of AMD is underscored by demographic shifts. The World Health Organization forecasts the number of individuals aged 60 and older will double from 2017’s count of 962 million to 2.1 billion by 2050, creating a substantial pool at risk for AMD. Particularly alarming is the data from the National Eye Institute, which predicts the number of AMD cases in the United States alone will leap from 2.07 million to 5.44 million by 2050.
More than just these demographic changes, increased awareness and advancements in early diagnosis are fueling demand for AMD treatments. Optical coherence tomography (OCT), which allows for quicker and more accurate detection of AMD, is now being used by about 85% of ophthalmologists—up from only 45% ten years ago, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
But awareness alone isn’t tackling the epidemic. Lifestyle factors, particularly dietary habits and smoking, contribute significantly to AMD’s uptick. A study published in JAMA Ophthalmology highlights the correlation between diets high in processed foods and low in omega-3 fatty acids, showing individuals falling under this dietary category are 1.8 times more likely to face AMD.
Technological advancements are heralding new hope on the treatment front. Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) therapies—like ranibizumab and aflibercept—are creating new possibilities for patients suffering from AMD. The global market for these therapies is valued at around $11.3 billion as of 2024, according to Astute Analytica. Emerging treatments, such as gene therapy and stem cell therapy, are on the horizon, showing great promise for future patient care.
Among the current therapies, Eylea (aflibercept) stands out as the leading treatment for AMD. Clinical trial results have shown exceptional efficacy, with over 95% of patients maintaining their vision within the first year of treatment. Eylea's ability to create fewer required injections—41% fewer compared to similar therapies—has made it significantly more appealing to patients and healthcare providers alike. The reduced burden of treatment and solid safety profile, with adverse events reported at less than 1%, has led many to label Eylea the gold standard for managing AMD.
The primary culprit behind the significant economic impact of AMD treatments is wet AMD, which accounts for approximately 90% of treatment revenues within the overall AMD market. This condition leads to severe vision deterioration and mandates expensive, frequent treatments, which often deter patients due to the cost factor. For example, Lucentis costs roughly $2,000 per dose, and patients usually require several injections each year, culminating in financially taxing treatment routines.
Despite these high costs, North America remains the forefront leader of the AMD market, with approximately 11 million Americans already diagnosed, and projections suggest this number could double within the next 30 years. The United States alone boasts over 19,000 ophthalmologists, underscoring the comprehensive network available for patient care and research.
With advancements also reflecting within the pharmacy sector, hospital pharmacies are becoming more pivotal than ever, particularly with the increasing accessibility of AMD treatment drugs. These pharmacies are not only specialized for maintaining the necessary conditions for sensitive treatments but also play critical roles through staff expertise, contributing to better management of complex treatment regimens.
Recent news lauds the FDA's approval of biosimilar Enzeevu, which competes directly with Eylea. This new offering aims to provide patients with interchangeable therapy, potentially reducing the cost burden associated with AMD treatment. Approved based on the Mylight study, this approval is anticipated to create more accessibility by adding treatment alternatives for patients who currently have limited options.
Jeff Todd, President and CEO of Prevent Blindness, expressed optimism about the addition of biosimilar treatments, noting, “We welcome all treatment options to maintain vision and meet the unique needs of the individual.” His sentiments highlight the importance of keeping treatment personalized and accessible to the many who depend on them for daily independence.
Yet, even with promising advancements, obstacles remain. The high cost of AMD treatments often limits patients' access, pushing many below the threshold for affordability. Add to this the limited awareness surrounding early symptoms of AMD, and we can see how much work needs to be done before these advancements can truly benefit the masses. Ongoing research continues to pave the way, and with significant funding being funneled for AMD studies, the future is bright for both patients and healthcare providers.
Even so, as the medical community continues its battle against AMD, the combined efforts of technological innovation, awareness-raising, and improved patient care strategies will be central to combating the rising tide of this potentially devastating eye disease. With the growing prevalence of AMD and reliable predictive data, the urgency for effective treatments and preventive measures remains at the forefront of both medical discussions and market demands.