Diagnostics Market for Infectious Diseases Expands in Developing Economies

The diagnostics market for infectious diseases is expanding in the developing economies of Asia, Africa and Latin America. The infectious diseases include such illnesses as tuberculosis (TB), human immunodeficiency virus (H-IV), hepatitis C virus and human papilloma virus.

Frost & Sullivan has found that the market is experiencing improved devices and technologies. For example, new molecular technology for the screening of a drug-resistant form of TB is replacing culture-based tests. Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is a form of the illness which does not respond to isoniazid and rifampicin, which the World Health Organization describes as the “two most powerful anti-TB drugs.” In 2012, some 450,000 people developed MDR-TB worldwide.

Meanwhile, as far as the Frost & Sullivan report, startup companies are developing diagnostic technology and devices in response to the medical needs. The firm says some of key requirements in the technology are to keep costs relatively low – because of income levels in the economies – and ensure point-of-care usage.

Yet, a statement made regarding the report says that “sustainable local manufacturing of infectious diagnostic products” is a “challenge” for these developing economies. “Not only does it require adequate skills and infrastructure at each stage of the process but also a conscious assessment of quality, safety and regulatory issues.”

Another important challenge is having appropriate funding. “Despite its crucial role in disease control, diagnostics research for infectious diseases receive(s) surprisingly little funding in comparison with other areas of translational research such as drug and vaccine development,” according to the statement. 

In the study, it was also found that to be successful the researchers need to be part of diverse team – which features partnerships and alliances. It includes life scientists, physicists and engineers – each working on their own specialty.

In addition, there has been increased involvement of multinational companies which will provide “diagnostic service packages to both public and private sector clinics and hospitals.”

Frost & Sullivan is a global consulting firm headquartered in San Antonio, Texas.