Gastrointestinal Diagnostics Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2020-2030F

The Gastrointestinal Diagnostics Market was valued at USD 5.33 Billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 7.02 Billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 4.65%. The Global Gastrointestinal Diagnostics Market is primarily driven by the increasing prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), colorectal cancer, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Rising awareness about early detection and diagnosis of these conditions is also fueling market growth. The prevalence of IBS across Internet survey countries varied from a low of 1.3% (0.8%-1.8%) in Singapore to a high of 7.6% (6.4%-8.7%) in Egypt. However, the majority of countries (19 out of 26) reported IBS rates between 3% and 5%.

The exceptions, apart from Singapore and Egypt, were Japan (2.2%), China (2.3%), Russia (5.9%), South Africa (5.9%), and the United States (5.3%). In total, 24 of the 26 countries had IBS prevalence rates ranging from 2% to 6%, with Singapore and Egypt being the outliers. In household countries, IBS prevalence ranged from 0.2% (0.1%-0.3%) in India to 4.6% (3.7%-5.5%) in Bangladesh, showing greater variance compared to Internet survey countries. The pooled prevalence rates for IBS were consistently higher among women in both survey methods, with a female-to-male odds ratio (OR) of 1.8 (1.7-2.0) for Internet countries and 2.0 (1.5-2.5) for household countries. In the Internet surveys, IBS prevalence declined with age, from 5.3% (5.0%-5.6%) to 3.7% (3.5%-4.0%) to 1.7% (1.4%-1.9%), while in household countries, it increased with age, from 1.4% (1.1%-1.7%) to 1.5% (1.2%-1.7%) to 1.9% (1.4%-2.4%).

Advancements in diagnostic technologies, such as endoscopy, imaging techniques, and molecular diagnostics, are enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of gastrointestinal diagnostics. The growing geriatric population, which is more prone to GI diseases, contributes significantly to the demand for diagnostic services. The rising adoption of minimally invasive procedures and increasing healthcare investments in developing regions are further boosting market expansion. As healthcare systems continue to focus on preventative care, the demand for gastrointestinal diagnostics is expected to rise globally.

Key Market Drivers

Rising Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Disorders

The increasing prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders worldwide is one of the most significant factors driving the global gastrointestinal diagnostics market. Disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), colorectal cancer, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and peptic ulcers have become more common in recent years, largely due to changing lifestyles, poor dietary habits, and high-stress levels.

According to a study titled, “Prevalence and Financial Burden of Digestive Diseases in a Commercially Insured Population”, the study included a total of 7,297,435 individuals diagnosed with a digestive disease. The point prevalence of digestive diseases within the overall population was 24%. Annual total costs varied by clinical category, ranging from USD 10,038 for eosinophilic esophagitis to USD 107,007 for hepatitis C. In most conditions, medical costs represented the majority of the total expenditures.

As more individuals are diagnosed with these conditions, there is an increasing demand for accurate and reliable diagnostic tools to identify these disorders at early stages. Early detection is key to improving patient outcomes, particularly in the case of colorectal cancer, where timely intervention can significantly increase survival rates. The rising incidence of these conditions in both developed and developing regions contributes significantly to the growing demand for gastrointestinal diagnostics.

Growing Awareness and Focus on Early Diagnosis

With the rise in the number of individuals diagnosed with gastrointestinal diseases, there is an increasing focus on early diagnosis and preventive healthcare. Awareness campaigns, government initiatives, and educational programs are playing a significant role in educating the general population about the importance of early screening for GI conditions.

In particular, screening for colorectal cancer is becoming more common in many countries, especially in individuals above the age of 50. Increased awareness is leading to more patients opting for routine gastrointestinal screenings, including colonoscopies and stool-based tests. Early diagnosis of GI diseases is critical, as it can lead to more effective treatments, better patient outcomes, and reduced healthcare costs. As a result, this awareness shift is positively impacting the demand for advanced gastrointestinal diagnostic tools.

Rising Geriatric Population

The world’s aging population is a major driver of the gastrointestinal diagnostics market. Older adults are at a higher risk of developing various gastrointestinal conditions, such as colorectal cancer, diverticulosis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). According to WHO, the global population of individuals aged 60 years and older is projected to rise from 1 billion in 2020 to 1.4 billion in the near future. By 2050, this demographic is expected to double, reaching 2.1 billion people. Additionally, the number of individuals aged 80 years or older is anticipated to triple from 2020 to 2050, reaching 426 million.

As the global population continues to age, the number of elderly individuals requiring diagnostic services for gastrointestinal disorders is expected to increase. In developed regions such as North America and Europe, where the proportion of elderly people is particularly high, there is a growing need for specialized diagnostic tools and services. The rise in the geriatric population is therefore expected to continue driving demand for effective gastrointestinal diagnostics, as older adults typically require more frequent screenings and medical attention for GI issues.

Growing Healthcare Infrastructure in Emerging Markets

Emerging markets, particularly in regions such as Asia Pacific, South America, and Middle East & Africa, are experiencing rapid growth in healthcare infrastructure. This is driven by rising healthcare spending, improving healthcare facilities, and increasing investments in medical technologies. In many of these regions, healthcare systems are evolving to meet the demands of a growing population, leading to increased access to diagnostic tools and services for gastrointestinal disorders. Governments in developing countries are also focusing on improving access to healthcare by building more hospitals, diagnostic centers, and specialized clinics. As a result, the availability and adoption of advanced gastrointestinal diagnostic tools are rising in these regions, fueling the overall growth of the market. The expansion of healthcare coverage and the improvement of healthcare facilities in emerging economies will continue to boost demand for GI diagnostics.

Increased Healthcare Expenditures and Reimbursement Policies

The rising healthcare expenditures across both developed and developing regions is driving the demand for advanced diagnostic tools. As more governments and private health insurers invest in improving healthcare accessibility, reimbursement policies for diagnostic tests are becoming more comprehensive. In countries like the U.S. and several European nations, insurance companies often cover the costs of diagnostic tests for certain gastrointestinal conditions, such as colonoscopies for colorectal cancer screening. This reduces the financial burden on patients and encourages more people to seek diagnostic services for GI disorders. As healthcare spending continues to increase, patients will have better access to the latest diagnostic tools, further driving market growth.

Development of Personalized Medicine

The shift toward personalized medicine is another important factor fueling the growth of the gastrointestinal diagnostics market. Personalized medicine focuses on tailoring treatments to individual patients based on their genetic makeup, lifestyle, and other factors. As advancements in molecular diagnostics, genomics, and bioinformatics continue to progress, the ability to provide personalized treatment plans for gastrointestinal diseases is improving. This shift is leading to an increased demand for diagnostic tests that can identify specific genetic markers and molecular profiles associated with gastrointestinal conditions. Personalized medicine has the potential to revolutionize gastrointestinal care, leading to more effective treatments and improved patient outcomes, which in turn drives demand for advanced diagnostic tools.

Key Market Challenges

High Costs of Advanced Diagnostic Tools

One of the primary challenges in the gastrointestinal diagnostics market is the high cost of advanced diagnostic tools and technologies. Procedures such as endoscopy, capsule endoscopy, colonoscopy, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) require significant investment in equipment, infrastructure, and ongoing maintenance. These high costs make it difficult for smaller healthcare facilities, particularly in emerging markets, to invest in and adopt these technologies. Patients may be unable to afford the high out-of-pocket costs associated with these tests, especially in regions where insurance coverage for diagnostic procedures is limited. This financial barrier may restrict the widespread adoption of advanced gastrointestinal diagnostics, hindering the growth of the market, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Lack of Skilled Healthcare Professionals

Another challenge facing the gastrointestinal diagnostics market is the shortage of skilled healthcare professionals capable of performing diagnostic procedures and interpreting results. Advanced procedures such as colonoscopy or endoscopy require well-trained and experienced professionals to ensure accurate results and minimize the risk of complications. In many regions, especially in developing countries, there is a shortage of qualified personnel, which limits access to essential gastrointestinal diagnostic services. The shortage of skilled professionals also contributes to longer wait times for patients, reducing the overall efficiency of the healthcare system. Addressing this challenge requires investment in education and training for healthcare professionals, as well as government and private sector initiatives to improve workforce capacity.

Regulatory and Reimbursement Challenges

Navigating regulatory approvals and reimbursement policies can be a significant challenge for manufacturers and healthcare providers in the gastrointestinal diagnostics market. Different countries have different regulatory requirements, and obtaining the necessary approvals for new diagnostic technologies can be a lengthy and complex process. In addition, reimbursement policies for diagnostic tests and procedures may vary greatly across regions, with some countries offering limited reimbursement for certain procedures. For example, in some markets, diagnostic tests for conditions such as colorectal cancer may not be fully covered by insurance, leading to higher out-of-pocket expenses for patients. These regulatory and reimbursement hurdles create barriers for market players, limiting their ability to introduce new products or expand their services in certain regions.

Key Market Trends

Technological Advancements in Diagnostic Tools

Advancements in diagnostic technologies are playing a pivotal role in driving the growth of the global gastrointestinal diagnostics market. Technologies such as endoscopy, capsule endoscopy, ultrasound imaging, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are revolutionizing the way GI disorders are diagnosed. These tools are less invasive and provide more accurate results than traditional diagnostic methods, enabling healthcare professionals to make better clinical decisions. In March 2021, GI OnDemand teamed up with Ambry Genetics to improve genetic testing and counseling services in gastroenterology practices throughout the U.S.

For example, capsule endoscopy allows for the visual examination of the small intestine, an area that was once difficult to access using conventional endoscopic methods. Molecular diagnostics, which involve analyzing genetic material to detect certain GI diseases, are rapidly gaining popularity. In May 2022, Biomerica, Inc. received CE mark approval for its hp+detect diagnostic test, which identifies Helicobacter pylori, a common risk factor for gastric cancer, in the European Union and other international markets.

The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in imaging and diagnostics further enhances the accuracy, speed, and precision of these technologies, ensuring better outcomes for patients.

Increasing Adoption of Minimally Invasive Procedures

Another major driver of the gastrointestinal diagnostics market is the growing preference for minimally invasive procedures. Patients and healthcare providers alike are increasingly opting for procedures that involve less pain, faster recovery times, and reduced risk of complications compared to traditional invasive surgeries. Technologies such as laparoscopy, endoscopy, and colonoscopy allow healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat gastrointestinal disorders with minimal discomfort to the patient. This shift toward minimally invasive procedures has increased the demand for diagnostic tests and tools that support these techniques. The increased availability of outpatient procedures that require less recovery time has made gastrointestinal diagnostics more accessible to patients, further contributing to market growth.

Segmental Insights

Test Type Insights

Based on the Test Type, Endoscopy is currently dominating the Global Gastrointestinal Diagnostics Market. This method, which includes procedures such as colonoscopy, gastroscopy, and capsule endoscopy, is considered one of the most reliable and widely used tools for diagnosing a range of gastrointestinal conditions. Endoscopy allows for direct visualization of the gastrointestinal tract, enabling healthcare professionals to detect abnormalities such as polyps, tumors, ulcers, and inflammation that are often indicative of diseases like colorectal cancer, gastritis, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis.

Endoscopy plays a crucial role in early diagnosis, particularly in detecting colorectal cancer, one of the most prevalent forms of cancer worldwide. Early detection through screening techniques such as colonoscopy has been shown to significantly reduce mortality rates, making it a vital tool in preventive healthcare. With rising awareness about the importance of early cancer detection, many countries have established routine colorectal cancer screening programs that rely heavily on endoscopic procedures. This has significantly contributed to the increased demand for endoscopy-based diagnostic tools in the gastrointestinal diagnostics market.

Capsule endoscopy is gaining popularity as a minimally invasive alternative to traditional endoscopic procedures. It involves swallowing a small, pill-sized capsule that contains a camera to take images of the gastrointestinal tract, particularly the small intestine, which can be difficult to access through conventional endoscopic methods. Capsule endoscopy is especially beneficial for diagnosing conditions such as Crohn’s disease, small bowel tumors, and bleeding sources in the small intestine. As a non-invasive procedure with fewer risks, capsule endoscopy is becoming an attractive option for both patients and healthcare providers, driving its adoption in the market.

Technology Insights

Based on the Technology segment, PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) currently holds a dominant position, largely due to its high sensitivity and accuracy in detecting various gastrointestinal infections and diseases. PCR is a molecular diagnostic technique that amplifies and detects specific DNA or RNA sequences, making it an invaluable tool for identifying pathogens, viruses, and genetic mutations associated with gastrointestinal disorders. PCR-based tests can rapidly and accurately detect a wide range of gastrointestinal pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites that cause conditions such as gastroenteritis, infectious colitis, and hepatitis.

One of the key advantages of PCR over other diagnostic methods like ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) and microbiology is its ability to detect infections at the molecular level, even when the pathogen is present in low quantities. PCR tests can detect specific genetic markers of pathogens, enabling the identification of infections that traditional microbiology methods may miss, such as certain Clostridium difficile strains or viral infections like Norovirus. PCR also provides faster results compared to traditional culture-based microbiology tests, which require longer incubation times.

The ability to obtain quick results with high precision has driven the widespread adoption of PCR in clinical settings for gastrointestinal diagnostics. PCR is increasingly being used to identify genetic mutations or alterations that may be associated with gastrointestinal diseases, such as colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). For example, PCR is employed to detect KRAS mutations in colorectal cancer patients, helping clinicians determine the best course of treatment. Similarly, PCR can identify certain genetic markers in IBD patients, aiding in diagnosis and prognosis. This growing use of PCR in personalized medicine, particularly in gastrointestinal oncology and gastroenterology, further solidifies its dominant position in the market.

Regional Insights

North America dominated the Global Gastrointestinal Diagnostics Market, largely due to the high demand for advanced healthcare services, a well-established healthcare infrastructure, and increasing awareness of gastrointestinal diseases. The region, particularly the United States and Canada, is home to some of the most advanced diagnostic technologies and medical research facilities, which contribute significantly to the growth of the gastrointestinal diagnostics market. The robust healthcare system in North America supports the widespread adoption of cutting-edge diagnostic tools such as endoscopy, PCR, and molecular diagnostics. These technologies are essential for early diagnosis and management of a variety of gastrointestinal disorders, including colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

A major driver of North America’s dominance is the increasing prevalence of gastrointestinal diseases, particularly colorectal cancer, which is one of the most common cancers in the region. The demand for early screening procedures, such as colonoscopy, is rising as awareness of the importance of early diagnosis continues to grow. The aging population in North America is contributing to a higher incidence of gastrointestinal conditions, as older adults are more prone to diseases like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and gastrointestinal cancers. With more people seeking timely diagnostic tests and treatment options, the market for gastrointestinal diagnostics is expanding.

North America benefits from the presence of leading market players, including diagnostic equipment manufacturers, research institutions, and healthcare providers, which have contributed to the rapid development and innovation of diagnostic technologies. The region’s investment in medical research and development (R&D) continues to push the boundaries of gastrointestinal diagnostics, including the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to enhance diagnostic accuracy and efficiency. This commitment to innovation is further propelling the growth of the market in North America, where healthcare providers are increasingly adopting new technologies to improve patient outcomes.

Key Market Players

• bioMérieux S.A.
• F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd.
• Abbott Laboratories, Inc.
• Beckman Coulter, Inc.
• DiaSorin S.p.A
• Siemens Healthineers AG
• QIAGEN N.V.
• Meridian Bioscience, Inc.
• Hologic, Inc.
• Epitope Diagnostics Inc.

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Gastrointestinal Diagnostics Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

Gastrointestinal Diagnostics Market, By Test Type:

• Endoscopy
• Blood Test
• H. pylori Test
• Calprotectin Test
• Immunoglobulin A Test
• Others

Gastrointestinal Diagnostics Market, By Technology:

• ELISA
• PCR
• Microbiology
• Others

Gastrointestinal Diagnostics Market, By Application:

• Infection
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
• Cancer
• Others

Gastrointestinal Diagnostics Market, By Test Location:

• Central laboratories
• Point-of-Care

Gastrointestinal Diagnostics Market, By Region:

• North America
• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
• Europe
• France
• United Kingdom
• Italy
• Germany
• Spain
• Asia-Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Australia
• South Korea
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Colombia
• Middle East & Africa
• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Gastrointestinal Diagnostics Market.

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Company Information

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

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