Cluster headache, also known as histamine cephalgia, is a neurological disorder characterized by severe pain on one side of the head. The pain is generally described as boring, stabbing, or sharp and usually occurs behind or around one eye. The exact cause for cluster headaches is unknown, however, genetic and environmental factors are believed to play a role. Currently available treatment options for cluster headache include oxygen therapy, triptans, corticosteroids, verapamil, topiramate, and ergotamine. However, these therapies have limited effectiveness, unpleasant side effects, and discontinuation risks. This has increased the demand for alternative treatment options such as non-invasive neurostimulation devices that can deliver targeted stimulation to blocks pain signals.
The Global Cluster Headache Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 463.25 Bn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 26% over the forecast period 2024 to 2031.
Key Takeaways
Key players operating in the Cluster Headache Market Demand are AWIRE Technology Corp., STARNEX Co., Ltd., Theatro, and OrionLabs, Inc. These companies are focusing on developing advanced neurostimulation devices for cluster headache treatment. For instance, in 2021, Theatro launched a new non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation device for preventive cluster headache treatment.
The rapidly growing cluster headache patient pool worldwide presents significant growth opportunities in the market. According to estimates, over 1 million people in the US and over 4 million people globally suffer from cluster headache. However, only about 15% receive proper treatment due to low awareness about treatment options and availability of specialized care.
North America holds the largest share of the global cluster headache market, followed by Europe. However, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period owing to improving access to advanced treatment such as neurostimulation therapies and increasing focus of leading players on emerging markets.
Market Drivers
Increasing prevalence of cluster headache disorder globally is a major market driver. Rising risk factors like family history of cluster headache, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption are contributing to the growing disease burden. According to a study published in Neurology, the 1-year prevalence of cluster headache is 43 per 100,000 population. Furthermore, growing awareness about alternative treatment options and early adoption of neurostimulation devices will support the market growth.
Market Restraints
High cost of neurostimulation devices used for preventive cluster headache treatment poses a major challenge in developing markets. On an average, non-invasive vagus nerve stimulators cost between US$ 6,000–8,000, limiting their availability. Secondly, lack of healthcare reimbursement policies for cluster headache therapies in most countries negatively impacts the market.
Segment Analysis
The episodic cluster headache segment currently dominates the cluster headache market. Cluster headache occurs in episodic or chronic form. Episodic cluster headaches occur in distinct periods with pain-free periods in between. It affects nearly 75-80% of the total cluster headache population. As episodic cluster headache has distinct periods of attacks as well as remission, it can be effectively treated and managed through acute and preventive treatment approaches using triptans, oxygen therapy, and other medications during active cluster periods.
Global Analysis
The North America region holds the largest share of the cluster headache market and is estimated to grow steadily during the forecast period. This is attributed to factors such rising disease prevalence, growing awareness about the condition and treatment options available, presence of well-established healthcare infrastructure and favorable reimbursement policies, availability of expensive triptans and other treatment options. Europe is the second largest market for cluster headaches. Availability of strategic initiatives and programs for improving patient care and medical access boosts market growth in the region. Developing regions such as Asia Pacific are expected to offer lucrative opportunities. Rising healthcare expenditure, increasing focus on neurological disorders, expanding medical tourism industry are supporting the regional market growth.
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