Market Trends of Netherlands Diagnostic Imaging Equipment Industry
The Oncology Segment is Expected to Witness Growth During the Forecast Period
Diagnostic imaging is vital in interventional oncology, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Computed tomography is a highly beneficial and preferred imaging method for many conditions, including trauma patients. Positron emission tomography (PET) and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) are also used in cancer diagnostic imaging. Hybrid medical devices such as PET/CT or PET/MRI can further contribute to the segment's growth.
According to the Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), in October 2022, 1 in 13 people in the Netherlands are estimated to be diagnosed with cancer by 2032, and the number of cancer cases is expected to rise from 800.000 in 2022 to nearly 1.4 million by 2032. Hence, the country's high burden of cancer cases is projected to increase the demand for diagnostic imaging and is expected to augment the segment growth in the coming years.
Furthermore, the government's funding to expedite research and development in the oncology segment is projected to boost the demand in the market segment. For instance, in February 2023, the Netherlands Cancer Institute (NKI) secured EUR 15 million (USD 16.0 million) in funding for the NL-BioImaging consortium. Research using high-powered microscopy can lead to breakthroughs in understanding diseases and developing new diagnostic tools. The NL-BioImaging consortium's focus on making these techniques accessible could accelerate innovation in imaging diagnostics. These government initiatives are expected to bolster the demand for oncology diagnostic imaging equipment, which is projected to augment the segment's growth during the forecast period.
The Mammography Segment is Expected to Hold a Significant Share of the Market
Mammography is an X-ray imaging technique used to examine the breast for the early detection of cancer and other breast diseases. There are two types of mammograms, namely screening and diagnostic. A diagnostic mammogram is done for people who have a lump or other signs and symptoms of breast cancer, and along with other tests, it helps confirm whether the patient has cancer or not.
Factors such as increasing breast cancer screening and the Dutch government's breast cancer screening programs are expected to create demand for these mammography devices and garner the segment's growth.
The Government of the Netherlands designed a National Breast Cancer Screening Programme for women between 50 and 75 years of age, and the women of the age group are invited for a mammogram once every 2 years. This is increasing awareness regarding breast cancer and the benefits of mammogram screening.
As per a report published by the Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL) in October 2023, in 2022, nearly 88.6% of the total women population in the country was invited to the national breast cancer screening program, out of which 70.7% of the invited women participated. This focus on quality can lead to increased investment in advanced mammography technology. Therefore, increasing awareness regarding breast cancer screening is expected to propel the demand for diagnostic imaging equipment in the country.
In addition, in March 2024, the Dutch National Breast Cancer Screening Programme stated that the high prevalence of breast cancer in the Netherlands, with an estimated 1 in 8 women developing the disease and nearly 14,000 diagnosed annually, necessitates a robust mammography screening program. This translates to a significant and constant demand for mammography services to ensure early detection and improve patient outcomes. Thus, the increased adoption of advanced mammography technologies is further strengthening the market.
Thus, the country's commitment to a successful national screening program, coupled with the high prevalence of breast cancer, positions mammography as a vital diagnostic tool. Also, the active involvement of the government is expected to create demand for the availability of technologically advanced mammography equipment, further fueling the segment's growth.
