Dysphagia Management Market Size, Share, and Growth Forecast from 2025 - 2032

Dysphagia Management Market Size and Share Analysis

The global dysphagia management market is predicted to reach a size of US$ 4.9 Bn by 2025. It is anticipated to witness a CAGR of 6.3% during the forecast period to attain a value of US$ 7.5 Bn by 2032.

The forecast period is set to witness a shift toward preventive care with an increased focus on early screening. Routine screening programs for high-risk groups will become standard practice with adoption rate of screening programs set to increase by 35%. Proactive swallowing therapies and dietary interventions will gain popularity, reducing the incidence of severe dysphagia cases.

Companies are likely to prioritize sustainable and biodegradable packaging for dysphagia products to meet the global environmental goals. By 2032, 40% of dysphagia product packaging is likely to be eco-friendly.

Key Highlights of the Industry

• Government subsidized programs and awareness campaigns in emerging regions are estimated to boost diagnosis and treatment rates.
• Telehealth platforms for dysphagia therapy and remote monitoring are projected to witness rapid adoption.
• Rising adoption of home care services are likely to drive the demand for easy-to-use dysphagia products.
• Increased consumer preference for plant-based thickening agents and allergen-free nutritional products is anticipated to boost innovation.
• AI is anticipated to undergo wide adoption for early diagnosis and treatment monitoring for dysphagia with the technology accounting for 25% of dysphagia assessments by 2032.
• The forecast period is predicted to witness rising demand for portable devices for real-time swallowing function assessment.
• By product, the nutritional solution segment is anticipated to exhibit a share of 58.2% in 2025 as nutritional solutions a critical component of dysphagia management.
• Based on indication, the oropharyngeal dysphagia segment is predicted to hold a share of 82.2% in 2025 as 16% to 23% of individuals over the age of 50 are reported to experience oropharyngeal dysphagia.
• In terms of distribution channel, the hospital pharmacies segment is projected to hold a share of 42.3% in 2025 as these stock specialized dysphagia management products.
• Dysphagia management market in North America is set to exhibit a CAGR of 8.1% through 2032 as companies in the region develop innovative dysphagia products.

Market Attributes	Key Insights
Dysphagia Management Market Size (2025E)	US$ 4.9 Bn
Projected Market Value (2032F)	US$ 7.5 Bn
Global Market Growth Rate (CAGR 2025 to 2032)	6.3%
Historical Market Growth Rate (CAGR 2019 to 2023)	5.2%

Increasing Aging Population of North America to Bolster Growth

North America dysphagia management market is estimated to hold a share of 32.4% in 2025. The region has a significant aging population, thereby bolstering growth. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2022, adults aged 65 and older account for 17% of the population in the U.S. For instance,

• A survey revealed that approximately 15% to 22% of older adults in North America experience some degree of dysphagia.
• Conditions such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, ALS, and head and neck cancers, which often result in dysphagia, are highly prevalent in North America.
• About 795,000 strokes occur annually in the U.S., and dysphagia affects up to 65% of stroke patients.

Parkinson’s disease impacts nearly 1 million Americans, with 40% to 80% reportedly experiencing dysphagia. Increasing awareness of dysphagia and the availability of specialized products drive demand in this region.

Companies in North America are pioneers in developing innovative dysphagia products, such as thickening agents, oral supplements, and therapeutic devices. Brands like Thick-It and SimplyThick dominate the market, with a wide range of products tailored for dysphagia patients.

Risk of Malnutrition Makes Nutritional Solution a Critical Product

Nutritional solution is anticipated to hold a share of 58.2% in 2025. Dysphagia patients often face difficulty swallowing solid foods, necessitating the use of liquid or semi-solid nutritional solutions to meet their dietary needs. Studies show that up to 85% of dysphagia patients are at risk of malnutrition and dehydration, making nutritional solutions a critical component of dysphagia management. For instance,

• According to a survey, nearly 30% of elderly individuals in care settings are prescribed thickened liquids or specialized nutrition due to dysphagia.
• Over 60% of healthcare providers recommend thickened liquids for dysphagia patients, thereby emphasizing its critical role.

Companies are introducing ready-to-drink formulas and fortified nutritional supplements that are both convenient and tailored to specific dietary needs. Products like enriched protein shakes and pre-thickened beverages have shown double-digit growth rates in North America and Europe. Awareness campaigns and healthcare initiatives have increased market penetration of nutritional solutions by 20% in the last five years.

Rising Post-surgical Issues to Surge Prevalence of Oropharyngeal Dysphagia

Oropharyngeal dysphagia is projected to account for a share of 82.2% in 2025. Oropharyngeal dysphagia is commonly observed in populations with neurological disorders, post-surgical complications, and aging-related conditions.

• According to a report by Dysphagia Journal 2023, approximately 16% to 23% of individuals over the age of 50 experience oropharyngeal dysphagia.
• It is also reported to affect up to 65% of stroke patients, 50% of Parkinson's disease patients, and 40% to 60% of patients with head and neck cancers.

Oropharyngeal dysphagia leads to life-threatening complications, such as aspiration pneumonia, malnutrition, and dehydration, necessitating effective management. Aspiration pneumonia, a primary complication of oropharyngeal dysphagia is reported to account for 13% to 48% of pneumonia cases in elderly individuals. The use of video fluoroscopy for diagnosing oropharyngeal dysphagia has increased by 25% over the past decade.

Hospital Pharmacies are Integral to Managing Acute Conditions and Postsurgical Care

Hospital pharmacies are anticipated to account for a share of 42.3% in 2025. Hospital pharmacies are integral to managing acute conditions and post-surgical care, where dysphagia management is often a priority. For instance,

• Up to 50% of hospitalized stroke patients develop dysphagia, requiring immediate intervention with nutritional solutions and therapeutic aids.
• Dysphagia affects 33% of patients in intensive care units (ICUs), and hospital pharmacies are key to delivering tailored treatment.
• According to a report, in the U.S., there are over 36.2 million hospital admissions annually, with a significant proportion of patients requiring dysphagia-related products.

Hospital pharmacies stock specialized dysphagia management products, including thickening agents, pre-thickened beverages, and medical devices, ensuring immediate availability. Over 70% of hospitals in developed regions maintain an inventory of dysphagia-specific products to meet the demand for inpatient and outpatient care.

Dysphagia Management Market Introduction and Trend Analysis

Potential development in the global dysphagia management industry is predicted to be driven by growth in telehealth services for dysphagia therapy and monitoring. Manufacturers are estimated to develop region specific products catering to dietary preferences and cultural practices.

The forecast period is also anticipated to undergo greater integration of AI in diagnostic tools, thereby improving accuracy of results. By 2032, AI-driven diagnostic systems are set to account for 25% of all dysphagia assessments. The forecast period is also anticipated to witness growth in demand for portable devices for real-time swallowing function assessment.

Historical Growth and Course Ahead

The dysphagia management market growth was considerable at a CAGR of 5.2% during the historical period. Rising prevalence of dysphagia among the elderly and those with neurological disorders during the period bolstered growth. Companies progressively introduces innovative dysphagia diagnostic tools, such as videofluoroscopy and fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES).

The COVID-19 pandemic raised awareness about dysphagia, especially in post-ICU patients recovering from ventilator-associated complications. There was a greater adoption of digital tools for dysphagia screening and therapy monitoring. The period also witnessed can expansion in the use of ready-to-drink thickened beverages and fortified nutritional solutions.

The forecast period is anticipated to witnessing launches of plant based and allergen free thickening agents. Companies are predicted to expand their portfolios of prethickened beverages and oral supplements.

Market Growth Drivers

Need for Preventive Screening and Early Diagnosis to Push Demand

Dysphagia significantly increases the risk of aspiration pneumonia, which accounts for 15% to 20% of hospital-acquired infections worldwide. Early screening can reduce this risk by facilitating timely interventions.

• Undiagnosed dysphagia often leads to poor nutritional intake, with studies showing that up to 40% of dysphagia patients suffer from malnutrition.
• Dysphagia prevalence increases with age, affecting up to 50% of elderly individuals in long-term care facilities.

Early screening programs targeting these populations are essential. AI-powered tools are increasingly used to identify swallowing irregularities. These tools are capable of analysing patterns in speech, breathing, and swallowing mechanics.

Compact devices designed for bedside use, such as acoustic sensors and manometers, are making screening more accessible in hospitals and outpatient settings. Community based initiatives including public health campaigns are raising awareness about dysphagia and promoting early screening in primary care and outpatient settings. For instance,

• Early identification and treatment can prevent the progression to severe dysphagia in 25% to 30% of cases, significantly improving patient outcomes.

Demand for Specialized Care for Paediatric and Rare Cases to Skyroket

Dysphagia affects approximately 1 in 25 children globally, particularly those with developmental disorders, prematurity, or genetic conditions. Rare disorders including oesophageal dysphagia is caused by conditions such as achalasia or strictures, affecting 5% to 10% of dysphagia patients. Rare cases like tracheoesophageal fistula or laryngeal cleft necessitate highly specialized interventions.

Businesses are developing flavored and hypoallergenic thickening agents suitable for children. In the U.S., dysphagia screening is now part of routine care for children in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Japan and South Korea have implemented nationwide pediatric dysphagia screening programs. Subsidized care programs for children with congenital dysphagia are expanding, particularly in emerging economies.

Market Restraining Factors

High Treatment and Care Costs May Hinder Growth

The process of diagnosing dysphagia can be complex, involving a range of tests. These diagnostic imaging tests can cost anywhere from $200 to $3,000 depending on the complexity of the procedure and geographical location. Many dysphagia patients require enteral feeding to ensure proper nutrition. The costs associated with feeding tubes include both the initial placement and ongoing supplies.

Patients with feeding tubes are at risk of complications such as infections or tube dislodgement, which can increase healthcare costs due to hospital stays or additional medical procedures. Dysphagia patients are at a high risk of complications such as aspiration pneumonia, malnutrition, and dehydration, often leading to hospitalizations. For chronic patients who face ongoing complications, frequent hospital stays may be necessary, significantly increasing the overall cost of care.

Market Growth Opportunities

Insurance Coverage and Policy Support to Create New Avenues

The cost of managing dysphagia, especially long-term care, is high, with treatments such as enteral feeding, specialized nutritional products, and swallowing therapies often being out-of-pocket expenses. For example, enteral feeding can cost US$ 10,000 to US$ 20,000 per year. Insurance providers are starting to offer broader coverage for diagnostic assessments, nutritional support, and therapies related to dysphagia, helping reduce the financial burden on patients.

In the U.S., Medicare is a major source of healthcare coverage for elderly patients, many of whom suffer from dysphagia. Medicare Part B generally covers speech therapy services, which are essential for managing dysphagia, provided that a healthcare provider deems them medically necessary. Private insurers are increasingly covering dysphagia treatments as part of comprehensive care packages. For instance,

• According to reports, up to 30% of private health insurance plans in the U.S. now include coverage for dysphagia management, a figure that is set to grow as awareness of the condition increases.

Governments in countries such as the U.S., Canada, and parts of Europe are providing policy support to increase access to dysphagia management services. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the U.S. has funded research into dysphagia treatment, which has led to more inclusive healthcare policies and reimbursement models.

Shift toward Home Healthcare Services to Create Novel Opportunities

It is projected that by 2030, one in six people globally will be over the age of 60, and up to 80% of individuals over 75 may experience dysphagia due to age-related changes in swallowing function. As the number of elderly individuals rises, the demand for home healthcare services tailored to dysphagia management is set to grow. There is an increasing preference for receiving care at home, especially among elderly individuals, due to the comfort, convenience, and lower costs associated with home care.

Studies show that 70% to 80% of elderly patients prefer home care over institutional care, particularly for long-term chronic conditions. Home healthcare allows for more individualized attention, with healthcare providers offering tailored swallowing therapy, nutritional support, and monitoring of feeding devices, which is especially important for managing chronic dysphagia.

The integration of telemedicine has revolutionized home healthcare, enabling speech therapists and other specialists to monitor dysphagia patients remotely, offering consultations and therapy sessions via digital platforms. Wearable devices and mobile apps are increasingly being used to track swallowing functions in real-time, allowing caregivers and healthcare providers to monitor progress and intervene promptly if complications arise.

Competitive Landscape for the Dysphagia Management Market

Companies in the dysphagia management market are working on developing unique formulations, like thickening agents, oral supplements, and ready-to-drink products tailored to different severity levels of dysphagia. They are also incorporating natural, allergen-free, and organic ingredients to cater to consumer preferences.

Businesses are leveraging novel technology to create user-friendly diagnostic and therapeutic devices. They are progressively collaborating with healthcare providers, nutritionists, and speech-language pathologists to improve product efficacy and reach.

Manufacturers are also partnering with universities or research institutions for cutting-edge research and development. They are expanding into emerging markets where the prevalence of dysphagia is increasing due to aging populations and rising healthcare awareness.

Recent Industry Developments

• In November 2024, Care England and OHK launched a new white paper addressing dysphagia management. The white paper seeks to transform care practices across the UK, promoting life-changing solutions for a condition that affects around 4 million people.
• In October 2024, the School of Dentistry and the School of Health Professions created an interprofessional dysphagia oral health screening activity for third-year dental students and second year speech language pathology students.

Companies Covered in Dysphagia Management Market

• Eisai Co. Ltd.
• Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD)
• AstraZeneca Plc.
• Cipla Limited
• Nestle (Nestle Health Science)
• Kent Corporation (Kent Precision Foods Group, Inc.)
• Danone (Nutricia Advanced Medical Nutrition)
• Cook Group (Cook Medical Inc.)
• Novartis AG
• Lannett
• Hormel Foods Corporation
• Abbott
• Ingredion Incorporated
• IFF Nutrition & Biosciences
• CP Kelco U.S., Inc.
• Deosen Biochemical (Ordos) Ltd.
• Brenntag Sdn. Bhd.
• R.T. Vanderbilt Holding Company, Inc.
• Flavour Creations
• Welltop Food Ingredients Sdn. Bhd