Phototherapy Market Share Analysis
The incidence of preterm births, a significant contributor to neonatal mortality in the United States, has seen an uptick following declines observed in 2007 and 2014, as indicated by the latest annual report from the National Center for Health Statistics. Additionally, the rate of low birth weight experienced an increase in 2016. This unsettling trend underscores the importance of addressing factors influencing birth outcomes.
According to the report, the preterm birth rates in the United States climbed from 9.63% in 2015 to 9.84% in 2016, while the low birth weight rate saw an increase from 8.07% in 2015 to 8.16% in 2016. These figures highlight the persistent challenges associated with preterm births and underscore the need for effective interventions to improve neonatal outcomes.
Phototherapy stands out as a widely employed method for treating jaundiced preterm or low birth-weight infants. This therapeutic approach involves exposing newborns to specific wavelengths of light, effectively reducing elevated bilirubin levels in the bloodstream through a process known as photo-oxidation. During photo-oxidation, the interaction of light with bilirubin enhances its oxygenation, facilitating its dissolution in water.
Given the increasing prevalence of preterm and low birth-weight cases, the demand for phototherapy is expected to witness a corresponding rise. Phototherapy's effectiveness in managing jaundice in newborns makes it a crucial component of neonatal care, especially in cases where bilirubin levels need to be carefully regulated to prevent complications.
As healthcare providers and facilities grapple with the challenge of addressing the growing incidence of preterm births and associated complications, the role of phototherapy becomes more pronounced. The treatment's ability to mitigate the impact of jaundice in vulnerable newborns contributes to improved health outcomes, aligning with the broader goal of enhancing neonatal care.
Phototherapy, with its established efficacy in managing jaundice, emerges as a critical tool in the comprehensive care of preterm or low birth-weight infants. As the demand for interventions to address neonatal health challenges grows, phototherapy is poised to play a pivotal role in ensuring healthier outcomes for this vulnerable population.