The potential global and US markets for treating people with Long Covid are significant and growing. The factors driving market potential include:
- High Prevalence: As the Covid-19 pandemic continues, the number of people suffering from Long Covid is increasing. Estimates suggest that a significant proportion of Covid-19 patients experience long-term symptoms.
- Growing Awareness: There’s an increasing awareness of Long Covid among healthcare professionals and the public. This is leading to more diagnoses and treatments.
- Need for Specialized Care: Long Covid patients often require specialized care, including rehabilitation, respiratory therapy, mental health support, and other medical interventions.
- Insurance Coverage: With the recognition of Long Covid as a legitimate medical condition, insurance coverage for treatments is likely to increase.
- Global Market: The market is not limited to the US; it’s a global issue. As such, there’s potential for growth in various countries around the world.
In terms of market size, it’s difficult to give an exact figure due to the evolving nature of the condition and the market. However, it is expected to be in the billions of dollars.
US Estimates
- CDC Study: According to a CDC study published in February 2021, approximately 1 in 3 patients who had Covid-19 but didn’t require hospitalization reported not having returned to their usual state of health 2-3 weeks after testing.
- NIH Estimates: The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has initiated research efforts to study Long Covid, acknowledging that it affects a significant proportion of Covid-19 patients.
- Ongoing Research: Research is ongoing to better understand the prevalence and characteristics of Long Covid in the US. Various studies are being conducted to assess the number of people affected and the duration and severity of their symptoms.
Global Estimates
- WHO Estimate: The World Health Organization (WHO) and suggests that about 10% of Covid-19 patients experience symptoms of Long Covid, though the duration and severity of symptoms can vary widely.
- Imperial College London Study: A study conducted by Imperial College London estimated that around 2 million people in England may have Long Covid.
- Studies in Other Countries: Similar studies in other countries have found rates of Long Covid ranging from 10% to 30% of Covid-19 patients, depending on the study population and methodology.