The U.S. proton therapy market, valued at $1.04 billion in 2024, is forecast to reach $2.67 billion by 2033, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.97%.
Analysis from ResearchAndMarkets attributes the growth to increasing incidence of cancer, technological advancements in proton therapy, and broader insurance coverage.
Proton therapy offers precise targeting of cancer cells while sparing surrounding healthy tissue. This makes it particularly effective for tumors near critical organs, including the brain, heart, and spine. The treatment has gained traction for conditions such as pediatric cancers and head and neck cancers, and is also commonly used for prostate cancer.
Drivers of market growth
The rise in cancer diagnoses is a significant factor fueling demand for proton therapy. According to PubMed, an estimated 2 million new cancer cases and over 611,000 cancer-related deaths are expected in the U.S. in 2024. Proton therapy's precision and reduced side effects make it an attractive option, especially for younger patients and complex cases.
Technological innovations, such as pencil beam scanning and image-guided proton therapy, have further improved treatment accuracy and reduced costs. Advances in compact system designs are also enabling more healthcare facilities to adopt the technology.
The expanding availability of insurance coverage is another critical factor driving market growth. Insurers increasingly recognize proton therapy's benefits for various cancer types, lowering financial barriers for patients and healthcare providers.
Regional and industry developments
California is emerging as a leader in the proton therapy market due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure and focus on personalized medicine,
according to a release accompanying the report. The state houses prominent proton therapy centers and is positioned to maintain its leadership role in the global market.
Leading companies in the sector include IBA, Varian Medical Systems, Hitachi Ltd., Mevion Medical Systems, and Mitsubishi Electric Corporation. Recent developments include the installation of new proton therapy systems and clinical trials for advanced treatments, such as FLASH proton therapy.
The report underscores the U.S. market's significant growth potential, driven by technological advancements, increased awareness, and expanded accessibility of proton therapy.
