Preterm birth and prom testing refers to the procedures and tests conducted to predict the risks of preterm delivery. Preterm birth is the birth of a baby at less than 37 weeks gestational age. Preterm births often result due to genetic factors, infections, multiple pregnancies, addictions, chronic conditions in the mother and other lifestyle factors like stress. The preterm birth and prom testing market comprises diagnostic tests and kits for detecting fetal fibronectin, interleukin tests, cervical length by ultrasonography and others that help in identifying women at risk of early delivery. These tests aid doctors in deciding required treatment protocols and preventive measures. Early prediction helps reduce health risks in preterm babies through corticosteroid administration and fetal monitoring.

 

The Global Preterm Birth And Prom Testing Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 1.95 Mn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 4.7% over the forecast period 2024 to 2031.

 

Key Takeaways

 

Key players operating in the preterm birth and prom testing are Sanofi S.A., AbbVie Inc., Perrigo Company PLC, 3M, Lee's Pharmaceutical Holdings Ltd, Cassiopea, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, Bausch Health, and Novartis International AG. The key players are investing in R&D to develop novel diagnostic platforms with high sensitivity and specificity for early preterm risk prediction.

 

The rising prevalence of preterm births worldwide due to increasing lifestyle diseases, stress and multiple gestations is fueling the demand for preterm birth and prom testing. As per the WHO, preterm births affected 15 million babies globally in 2020. Early diagnosis improves maternal and infant health outcomes.

 

Technological advancements are expanding diagnostic capabilities. New biomarkers and genetic markers are being explored through big data analytics. Artificial intelligence is aiding automated image analysis and precision diagnosis. Point-of-care testing devices are improving accessibility in remote locations.

 

Market Trends

 

Home-based testing kits are gaining popularity due to convenience. Major players are launching over-the-counter self-testing kits with high accuracy. Telehealth is being utilized to monitor at-risk women remotely and provide test result analysis through video consultations.

 

Combination marker panels that include multiple biomarkers are demonstrating improved predictive power over single markers. Customized risk algorithms based on maternal characteristics and medical history are being researched.

 

Market Opportunities

 

Developing economies present lucrative growth prospects led by improving access to healthcare infrastructure and diagnostic services. Government initiatives for maternal and child welfare in these regions will propel market expansion.

 

Digital technologies offer opportunities for integrated testing platforms, connected devices, big data integration, AI image analysis and cloud-based result reporting. Advanced tools can transform preterm risk assessment.

 

Impact of COVID-19 on Preterm Birth And Prom Testing Market:

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the growth of the preterm birth and PROM testing market. During the peak of the pandemic between 2020 and 2021, there was a decline in the volume of births globally which reduced the demand for preterm birth and PROM testing products. Furthermore, limitations imposed on non-essential hospital visits and elective medical procedures restricted access to routine prenatal care and PROM testing services. Many healthcare facilities were primarily focused on treating COVID-19 patients which further deterred pregnant women from timely diagnosis and screening.

 

However, with vaccination drives and gradual lifting of restrictions in 2022, the market is recovering again. Governments and medical organizations worldwide are stressing on the importance of continued access to prenatal monitoring services. Telehealth solutions for remote consultations and home testing kits are gaining popularity. Manufacturers are also developing self-screening products to enable timely diagnosis without hospital visits. It is expected that focus on safety measures, enhanced diagnostics, and healthcare investments will support market growth in the coming years compared to pre-pandemic levels.

 

Geographical Concentration of Preterm Birth And Prom Testing Market:

North America accounts for the largest share of the global preterm birth and PROM testing market in terms of value. This is attributed to the high incidence of preterm births, growing awareness about prenatal care, and presence of sophisticated healthcare infrastructure and reimbursement policies in the region. Within North America, the United States holds the major market share owing to large patient pool and widespread adoption of advanced diagnostic techniques.

 

Fastest Growing Region in Preterm Birth And Prom Testing Market:

Asia Pacific region is identified as the fastest growing market for preterm birth and PROM testing globally. Factors such as rising healthcare spending, increasing focus on women's health, growing middle-class population, and improving access to modern medical services are driving higher growth in emerging Asian countries. China and India, in particular, offer lucrative opportunities due to their huge population base and evolving healthcare landscape. With economic development and awareness programs, the region's share in the global market is projected to rise substantially over the forecast period.

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