Transforming Maternal Care: The Future of Preterm Birth and PROM Testing by 2034

The global preterm birth and Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM) testing market is poised for significant growth, valued at US$ 227.8 million in 2023 and projected to reach US$ 562.1 million by 2034, at a robust CAGR of 8.6%. This upward trajectory is driven by a combination of rising preterm birth rates and advancements in diagnostic technology.

Analyst Viewpoint

The increasing prevalence of preterm births, influenced by lifestyle changes, maternal age, and socioeconomic factors, significantly contributes to market growth. Preterm birth and PROM testing enable healthcare providers to assess risks early, allowing for timely management strategies that improve outcomes for both mothers and newborns.

Innovations in diagnostic technology are revolutionizing this sector, enhancing accuracy, safety, and speed. The shift towards point-of-care diagnostic tools and advanced gene sequencing technologies reflects the growing demand, particularly in emerging economies.

Market Introduction

Preterm birth and PROM testing are vital diagnostic procedures that assess the risks of early delivery due to genetic factors or premature membrane rupture during pregnancy. These tests empower healthcare professionals to intervene proactively, minimizing potential health risks for mothers and infants.

The benefits of such testing in hospitals, prenatal care centers, and gynecology clinics include early risk detection, tailored management strategies, and a reduction in infant mortality and morbidity rates. Recent trends emphasize integrating artificial intelligence for risk prediction and utilizing cutting-edge biotechnological innovations for precise early detection.

Market Drivers

Rise in Prevalence of Preterm Births

The global rise in preterm births, influenced by evolving lifestyles, advanced maternal age, and increasing chronic health issues among pregnant women, fuels the demand for PROM testing. Socioeconomic factors and widening income disparities also impact access to prenatal care, further amplifying the need for effective testing solutions.

According to the World Health Organization, preterm births account for 4–16% of live births globally, with nearly 13.4 million babies born preterm each year. Alarmingly, three-quarters of these deaths could be prevented with timely interventions.

Advancements in Diagnostic Technology

The landscape of diagnostic technology is rapidly evolving, with innovations enhancing the accuracy and non-invasiveness of testing. The integration of molecular tools, such as next-generation sequencing (NGS), alongside advanced imaging techniques like 3D ultrasounds, enables healthcare providers to detect potential complications early.

The development of point-of-care testing devices facilitates efficient and accessible screening, while machine learning algorithms enhance data analytics, allowing medical professionals to craft timely, effective risk mitigation strategies.

Increased Investment in Medical Technology

Surging investment in medical technology, particularly for diagnostic purposes, is propelling market growth. In the U.S., spending on medical technology accounts for approximately 5.2% of total health expenditure, amounting to about US$ 199.1 billion annually.

Regional Outlook

North America: Leading the Market

North America dominated the preterm birth and PROM testing market in 2023, supported by advanced healthcare facilities and a growing number of preterm births. In 2022, there were 380,548 preterm births in the U.S., representing 10.4% of live births.

Asia Pacific: Steady Growth Ahead

The Asia Pacific region is expected to witness steady growth in the preterm birth and PROM testing market from 2024 to 2034, driven by improved healthcare access and population growth in countries like China and India.

Key Players and Developments

Prominent players in the preterm birth and PROM testing market are focusing on product innovation to enhance safety for mothers and infants. Mergers, acquisitions, and research collaborations are vital strategies for expanding product portfolios and meeting the needs of developing countries.

Key manufacturers include QIAGEN, Hologic, Inc., Medix Biochemica, Biosynex SA, Abbott, Laborie, Sera Prognostics, The Cooper Companies, Inc., NX Prenatal, Inc., and IQ Products. These companies are profiled based on their business strategies, product offerings, and market positions.

Recent Initiatives

In May 2022, Sera Prognostics and the Newborn Foundation launched the Every Mother, Every Baby Project to raise awareness about biomarker-driven preterm risk assessment tests. The initiative aims to improve newborn health outcomes by promoting the use of Sera's PreTRM test, which has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing mortality and morbidity rates.

Conclusion

The preterm birth and PROM testing market is set for robust growth driven by increasing prevalence of preterm births and continuous advancements in diagnostic technologies. As healthcare systems worldwide focus on improving maternal and infant health outcomes, the importance of early detection and intervention through effective testing will remain paramount. The market's future is bright, with opportunities for innovation and expansion, particularly in emerging economies.