North America Eye Care Market By Product Type (Eyeglasses, Contact Lens, Intraocular Lens, Eye Drops, Eye Vitamins, Others), By Coating (Anti-Glare, UV, Others), By Lens Material (Normal Glass, Polycarbonate, Trivex, Others), By Distribution Channel (Retail Stores, E-Commerce, Clinics, Hospitals), By Country, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

North America Eye Care Market was valued at USD 24.85 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to project robust growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 6.50% through 2030. The North America Eye Care Market is a dynamic and rapidly evolving sector within the broader healthcare industry. Comprising the United States and Canada, this market is characterized by a focus on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of various eye-related conditions and vision impairments.

The North America Eye Care Market has consistently demonstrated robust growth over the years. For instance, according to the article published in 2023, as per the National Library of Medicine, cataracts are a major cause of visual impairment in older adults. Lens opacification is strongly linked to various geriatric conditions, including frailty, increased fall risk, depression, and cognitive decline. Additionally, the same source reports that in 2020, the primary causes of blindness worldwide among individuals aged 50 and older were cataracts, followed by glaucoma, uncorrected refractive errors, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.  Also, according to a September 2023 news article from The Times of India, the outbreak of 'pink eye' led to a significant increase in ophthalmology medicine sales. In August, sales surged nearly 30% year-on-year for the second consecutive month, growing at almost five times the rate of the overall market. This sharp rise highlights the widespread incidence of conjunctivitis and related eye complications across the country in recent months. The market's expansion can be attributed to several factors, including an aging population, increasing awareness of eye health, technological advancements, and the growing demand for vision correction procedures. This market's growth trajectory is further fueled by innovations in diagnostic tools, pharmaceuticals, and surgical techniques.

Key Market Drivers

Technological Advancements: Pioneering Precision and Convenience

In the realm of eye care, technological advancements have proven to be a driving force like no other. These innovations have not only improved the quality of care but have also enhanced patient experiences. For instance, according to an October 2024 article published by Harvard Health, modern eye surgeries, though effective in treating conditions like cataracts and glaucoma, frequently result in complications such as dry eye disease. This condition, marked by a burning, gritty, or itchy sensation, can cause discomfort and deter some patients from undergoing surgery.

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) and similar procedures have gained widespread popularity. These treatments utilize laser technology to reshape the cornea, correcting refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Patients who undergo LASIK often experience rapid visual recovery and reduced dependence on glasses or contact lenses, leading to an improved quality of life. In an era marked by convenience and accessibility, telemedicine has transformed the way eye care is delivered.

Patients can now connect with ophthalmologists and optometrists remotely, allowing for timely consultations and follow-ups without the need for in-person visits. Telemedicine has been particularly beneficial for individuals in rural or underserved areas, ensuring they receive expert eye care services.

Aging Population: The Silver Wave of Eye Care Demand

The North American population is aging, and with this demographic shift comes an increased demand for eye care services. Aging individuals are more prone to various ocular conditions, which has led to a substantial rise in patient numbers. For instance, according to a research article, the population of Americans aged 65 and older is expected to grow from 58 million in 2022 to 82 million by 2050, reflecting a 47% increase. As a result, this age group’s share of the total population will rise from 17% to 23%.

Conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and diabetic retinopathy become more prevalent with age. As the baby boomer generation continues to age, the demand for treatments and surgeries to manage these conditions is steadily increasing. Eye care professionals are addressing these needs through early detection, innovative treatments, and surgical interventions.

Lifestyle Factors: Navigating the Digital Age's Impact

In our digital age, prolonged screen time and increased exposure to digital devices have brought about a unique set of challenges for eye health:

Digital eye strain, often referred to as CVS, is a common concern among individuals who spend extended hours in front of screens.Symptoms include eye fatigue, dryness, headaches, and blurred vision, all of which have contributed to a heightened awareness of the importance of regular eye check-ups. Eye care professionals now emphasize the adoption of healthy screen-time habits and the use of specialized eyewear to mitigate digital eye strain.

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Key Market Challenges

Regulatory Challenges and Insurance Coverage

Complex regulatory frameworks and insurance coverage issues can pose challenges for both eye care providers and patients.

The eye care industry is subject to stringent regulations, including licensing requirements, safety standards, and quality assurance measures. Compliance with these regulations can be time-consuming and costly for eye care practices. Insurance coverage for eye care services can be inconsistent, with some policies covering routine eye exams while others may not cover vision correction procedures like LASIK or specialty treatments.

Patients may face limitations in choosing eye care providers based on their insurance networks, which can impact their access to preferred specialists. Regulatory challenges and insurance limitations can create administrative burdens for eye care providers and financial barriers for patients seeking specialized treatments. These factors can slow down the growth of the market by affecting the affordability and accessibility of eye care services.

Workforce Shortages and Retention

The shortage of skilled eye care professionals and challenges in retaining them can impede the expansion of the eye care market.

There is a growing shortage of ophthalmologists and optometrists in certain regions, particularly in rural areas. This shortage limits the availability of eye care services in underserved communities. Attracting and retaining eye care professionals can be challenging due to factors like high educational debt, demanding workloads, and the need for continuous training to stay updated with evolving technologies and treatments.

Workforce burnout is a concern in the eye care industry, as professionals often work long hours and handle a high volume of patients, which can lead to decreased job satisfaction and retention challenges. Workforce shortages and retention issues can hinder the growth of the eye care market by limiting the capacity to meet increasing demand, especially in areas with a limited number of eye care specialists. Addressing these challenges is crucial for ensuring a sustainable and thriving eye care sector in North America.

While the North America Eye Care Market has witnessed substantial growth, it faces challenges related to access disparities, regulatory complexities, insurance coverage, workforce shortages, and retention. Overcoming these challenges is essential for ensuring that all individuals have equal access to high-quality eye care services and for sustaining the market's growth in the long term.

Key Market Trends

Teleophthalmology and Remote Eye Care Services

Teleophthalmology, the practice of providing eye care services remotely through telecommunication technology, has witnessed significant growth in North America.

Teleophthalmology enables patients to consult with eye care specialists from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for in-person visits. Eye care professionals can conduct digital screenings and examinations to assess visual acuity, detect eye diseases, and monitor treatment progress.

Teleophthalmology addresses access disparities, extending eye care services to rural and underserved areas where ophthalmologists may be scarce. Patients can receive postoperative care instructions and follow-ups through virtual consultations, improving the overall patient experience. This trend enhances accessibility, convenience, and efficiency in eye care, contributing to the growth of the market. Teleophthalmology also aids in early disease detection and management.

Personalized Vision Correction Procedures

Personalized vision correction procedures have gained prominence in the North America Eye Care Market, tailoring treatments to individual patient needs.

Advanced technologies, such as wavefront-guided LASIK, map the unique imperfections of each patient's cornea, allowing for highly customized vision correction. Phakic intraocular lenses (IOLs) and refractive lens exchange (RLE) offer personalized options for vision correction, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.

Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) procedures are guided by corneal topography, ensuring precise reshaping for optimal visual outcomes. Personalized vision correction procedures provide improved visual results and higher patient satisfaction. This trend attracts individuals seeking tailored solutions, contributing to the market's growth.

Innovative Pharmaceuticals for Retinal Diseases

The development and adoption of innovative pharmaceuticals for retinal diseases are reshaping the landscape of eye care treatments.

Anti-VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) drugs continue to evolve, with new formulations and delivery methods improving the management of retinal diseases like wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Research in gene therapies offers promising potential for treating inherited retinal diseases by targeting specific genetic mutations.

Implantable drug delivery systems, such as sustained-release implants, provide long-term treatment options for retinal conditions, reducing the need for frequent injections. These innovative pharmaceutical solutions have transformed the outlook for patients with retinal diseases, preserving vision and improving their quality of life. This trend drives both research and market growth.

The North America Eye Care Market is experiencing significant trends such as teleophthalmology, personalized vision correction procedures, and innovative pharmaceuticals for retinal diseases. These trends reflect the industry's commitment to improving patient care, accessibility, and treatment outcomes while fostering growth and innovation in the eye care sector.

Segmental Insights

Coating Insight

Based on the category of Coating, the Anti-Glare segment emerged as the dominant player in the North America market for Eye Care in 2023. The increasing demand for eyeglasses with anti-glare coating. Anti-glare coating reduces reflections from the surface of the lenses, which improves vision and makes it easier to see in low-light conditions. The growing awareness of the benefits of anti-glare coating. Anti-glare coating can also help to reduce eye strain and fatigue, which is especially beneficial for people who spend a lot of time on computers or other electronic devices. The increasing availability of anti-glare coating on a variety of lens materials. Anti-glare coating is now available on most lens materials, including polycarbonate, Trivex, and high-index lenses. These factors are expected to drive the growth of this segment.

Lens Material

Based on the category of Lens, the Polycarbonate segment emerged as the dominant player in the North America market for Eye Care in 2024. Polycarbonate lenses are lightweight and impact-resistant, making them a good choice for people with active lifestyles and children. Polycarbonate lenses are also relatively affordable, making them a good option for people on a budget. Polycarbonate lenses are available in a variety of lens materials, including anti-reflective coating, UV coating, and blue light blocking coating. These factors are expected to drive the growth of this segment.

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Country Insights

United States emerged as the dominant region in the North America Eye Care market in 2023, holding the largest market share in terms of value. The U.S. boasts one of the most advanced healthcare infrastructures globally, with a vast network of eye care clinics, hospitals, and specialized facilities. Access to state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and treatment options is readily available, attracting patients seeking top-tier eye care services. The U.S. is a hub for medical research and innovation, including eye care. Leading institutions and universities conduct groundbreaking research in ophthalmology, driving the development of cutting-edge treatments and technologies. Collaboration between academia and the private sector fosters continuous advancements in eye care. The U.S. consistently ranks among the top countries in terms of healthcare expenditure, including eye care. The willingness of patients and insurance systems to invest in eye health contributes to the growth of the market. Competition among eye care providers and medical facilities in the U.S. encourages the adoption of the latest technologies and treatments to attract patients. The competitive landscape drives ongoing improvements in service quality and patient outcomes. The aging population in the U.S. has led to a surge in demand for eye care services. With age-related eye conditions becoming more prevalent, the market has experienced sustained growth.

Recent Developments

• In 2024, Chicago, a promising new drug may become the first to protect vision in people with dry AMD. A study shows the investigational treatment significantly reduces vision loss and preserves critical eye structures essential for vision, offering new hope for patients with geographic atrophy, an advanced form of AMD.
• In 2024, London and Boston, Ora partnered with the Institute of Eye Surgery to improve patient access to advanced ophthalmology treatments. This strategic collaboration focuses on optimizing clinical trial delivery. As a leading global ophthalmic contract research organization (CRO), Ora joins forces with Ireland’s largest private ophthalmology provider, known for its innovation, excellence, and expertise in eye care.
• In September 2023: The new Sunglass Hut flagship store is located in Times Square and features state-of-the-art technology and a wide selection of sunglasses from over 200 brands.
• In September 2023, BHC's Bausch + Lomb division announced the disclosure of historical and pro forma financial information with respect to the acquisition of XIIDRA. The disclosure includes information on XIIDRA's revenue, profitability, and cash flow. 

Key Market Players

• Luxottica Retail North America Inc.
• Bausch Health Companies, Inc.
• Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc.
• Alcon Laboratories, Inc.
• Hoya Vision Care North America
• CopperVision Inc.
• Menicon America, Inc.
• AbbVie Inc.
• Carl Zeiss Meditec AG.
• F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG: Genentech, Inc

Report Scope:

In this report, the North America Eye Care Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• North America Eye Care Market, By Product Type:

o   Eyeglasses

o   Contact Lens

o   Intraocular Lens

o   Eye Drops

o   Eye Vitamins

o   Others

• North America Eye Care Market, By Coating:

o   Anti-Glare

o   UV

o   Others

• North America Eye Care Market, By Lens Material:

o   Normal Glass

o   Polycarbonate

o   Trivex

o   Others

• North America Eye Care Market, By Distribution Channel:

o   Retail Stores

o   E-Commerce

o   Clinics

o   Hospitals

• North Americ Eye Care Market, By Country:

o   United States

o   Canada

o   Mexico

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the North America Eye Care Market.

Available Customizations:

North America Eye Care market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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