Tustin, Calif.

Already a $6.2 billion market, diabetes management will grow at an annual rate of 11 percent during the next decade, according to a report from the market research firm Medtech Insight.

Consequently, by 2010, annual sales for this market will reach $15 billion, Medtech said.

Because of the large and growing diabetes patient population, the larger undiagnosed population and the fact that patients are responsible for 99 percent of diabetes management responsibilities, “opportunities for device manufacturers to develop patient-friendly solutions in this market abound,” said Sharon O'Reilly, Medtech's president and chief executive officer.

Among the most promising diabetes management products are oral therapies, glucose monitoring and insulin infusion products, Medtech continued. By 2005, revenues for the glucose monitoring market will surpass $2.5 billion, and revenues for the external insulin pump market will reach $625 million, Medtech predicted.

While inhaled insulin products have captured headlines recently, Medtech identified some roadblocks to growth in the inhaled insulin market. “Pulmonary delivery is not expected to completely replace insulin shots or insulin drugs,” the company said, noting that some studies have “raised concerns about the effectiveness of inhaled insulin over time, and possible adverse effects on the lungs.”

Medtech also pointed to islet cell transplantation and pancreas transplantation as promising possible cures for diabetes. However, the company conceded that a shortage of suitable organs and the risks of lifetime immunosuppression have hindered the use of such procedures.

For breaking news, go to www.homecaremonday.com, the electronic news service of the home medical equipment industry.