The global pediatric critical care market size was valued at USD 28.90 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to reach around USD 51.22 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 5.89% from 2024 to 2033.
The demand for pediatric critical care is expected to grow in response to the increasing prevalence of complex medical conditions in children. Advances in medical technology and treatment options are allowing more critically ill children to survive, creating a greater need for specialized care. To meet this demand, hospitals are expanding and enhancing their pediatric ICU services to provide the highest level of care for pediatric patients.
The rising incidence of respiratory infections among children is expected to drive the growth of the market. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), respiratory infections are a leading cause of admissions to PICUs globally. In a study by the Korean Society of Critical Care Medicine in November 2022, found that respiratory failure 30.3%, sepsis 14.1%, cardiac arrest 11.4%, heart disease 9.8%, and neurological conditions 5.9% were among the primary reasons for PICU admissions in children.
The rise in premature births, chronic health conditions, and complex medical needs among children contribute to the increased demand for pediatric critical care services. For instance, according to the National Library of Medicine published article in the U.S., the overall percentage of pediatric hospital admissions involving ICU care has increased from 10.6% in 2001 to 15.5% in 2019. Similarly, the percentage of ICU admissions in children’s hospitals increased significantly from 51.2% to 85.1% during the same period. This trend indicates a regionalization of pediatric critical care, with more children receiving specialized care in dedicated pediatric facilities rather than general hospitals. The prevalence of ICU care among hospitalized children increased significantly, indicating that approximately 239,000 children were admitted to a U.S. ICU in 2019.
Furthermore, according to the article published by the International Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics in 2021, highlighted that South Asia has the highest rates of low-birth-weight infants globally, with over half being born in Asia. In addition, the World Health Organization's data from May 2023 indicated that an estimated 13.4 million babies are born prematurely in 2020, accounting for over 10% of all births worldwide. As a result of these trends, there is a rising need for pediatric intensive care services.
| Report Attribute | Details |
| Market Size in 2024 | USD 30.60 Billion |
| Market Size by 2033 | USD 51.22 Billion |
| Growth Rate From 2024 to 2033 | CAGR of 5.89% |
| Base Year | 2023 |
| Forecast Period | 2024 to 2033 |
| Segments Covered | Treatment, hospital ownership, region |
| Market Analysis (Terms Used) | Value (US$ Million/Billion) or (Volume/Units) |
| Report Coverage | Revenue forecast, company ranking, competitive landscape, growth factors, and trends |
| Key Companies Profiled | Birmingham Women's and Children's; The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia; Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center; Great Ormond Street Hospital; The Hospital for Sick Children; Weill Cornell Medicine; Boston Children's Hospital; John Muir Health; Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust; Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago |
Based on the treatment, the respiratory segment is accounted for largest revenue share of over 27.79% in 2023. The rising prevalence of respiratory issues such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and severe asthma exacerbations has been a major issue for ICU admissions among children. The PICANet State of the Nation Report for 2023 reveals a significant and consistent increase in admissions with respiratory primary diagnoses over a three-year period. In 2022, respiratory admissions made up over 30% of all PICU activity, showcasing a continuous growth trend from 2020 to 2022. This trend underscores the growing importance of respiratory care in pediatric critical care services.
However, Cardiovascular segment is accounted of substantial growth during the forecast period. Increasing rates of pediatric heart surgeries, are leading to the establishment of specialized pediatric cardiac intensive care units (CICUs) to cater to complex cases. This trend is supported by a rising prevalence of congenital heart diseases among children, necessitating enhanced critical care services. In addition, the integration of advanced technologies in cardiac monitoring and treatment is further propelling market expansion.
Based on hospital ownership, Public/government hospitals segment accounted for the largest revenue share of over 34.98% in 2023. Public/government hospitals are observed to have the largest number of patient beds and cater to numerous service areas/medical conditions via their specialized departments. Public hospitals offer specialized services and advanced technologies, making them central to pediatric healthcare. In addition, government initiatives aimed at improving access to healthcare and reducing healthcare disparities are boosting the demand for PICU services.
For-profit privately owned are projected to witness the fastest CAGR over the forecast period, owing to rising demand for specialized pediatric services, enhanced technological investments, and favorable reimbursement policies. In addition, the flexibility of for-profit institutions allows for rapid adaptation to evolving healthcare needs, further driving market growth through improved patient care and operational efficiencies.
Asia Pacific Pediatric Critical Care Market Trends
Asia Pacific pediatric critical care market held the largest market share of over 53.89% in 2023 and witness the fastest growth during the forecast period. In countries such as India and China, the ICU admission rates for pediatric patients are rising due to increased healthcare access and awareness of pediatric health issues. According to UNICEF data, the neonatal mortality rate in South Asia was 22.992 per 1,000 live births in 2021, resulting in 801,694 neonatal deaths in the region that year. The large number of patients, rising awareness about neonatal care, and the increasing presence of global companies are expected to drive market growth in the coming years.
Japan pediatric critical care market is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period, driven by technological advancements, rising awareness of pediatric diseases, and increased government support. This growth is also fueled by the need for specialized care for children with chronic illnesses and the rising prevalence of pediatric diseases such as ADHD and ASD.
The pediatric critical care market in India is expected to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period. This is attributed due to the establishment of more pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) and training programs for healthcare professionals enhances service delivery. In addition, the prevalence of chronic conditions such as congenital heart diseases and respiratory issues fuels demand for specialized care, ensuring a robust market expansion in the coming years.
North America Pediatric Critical Care Market Trends
North America pediatric critical care market is expected to grow significantly during the forecast period, driven by increasing pediatric illness cases, advancements in medical technology, and rising healthcare expenditures. Factors such as a surge in respiratory illnesses and congenital disorders among children are further propelling demand for specialized care. This trend is expected to enhance the capacity and capabilities of PICUs across the region.
U.S. pediatric critical care market is anticipated to grow significantly over the forecast period, driven by the rising number of admissions to specialized pediatric ICUs (PICUs) in major children's hospitals.
Europe Pediatric Critical Care Market Trends
Europe pediatric critical care market is anticipated to grow significantly over the forecast period. Countries such as the UK and Germany have robust pediatric healthcare systems, leading to higher ICU admission rates. The availability of specialized pediatric facilities contributes to better access to critical care.
The pediatric critical care market in the UK is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period, driven by a 5% annual increase in demand for specialized services. With approximately 16,500 critically ill children admitted to Pediatric Intensive Care Units (PICUs) annually, and 8-10% requiring high dependency care, the growing need for intensive pediatric services highlights the urgent need for enhanced facilities and resources in this sector.
Germany pediatric critical care market is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period, fueled by an increasing number of pediatric admissions. This surge in demand is attributed to factors such as rising chronic illnesses and premature births.
Latin America Pediatric Critical Care Market Trends
Latin America pediatric critical care market is anticipated to grow significantly over the forecast period. This surge is driven by factors such as rising birth rates, increased prevalence of chronic diseases, and growing awareness of specialized pediatric care. Investments in healthcare infrastructure and rising disposable incomes are further propelling the market forward.
Brazil pediatric critical care market is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period. A study conducted in a tertiary hospital in Porto Alegre, Brazil, highlighted that pediatric ICU admissions are significant, with observed mortality rates higher for patients admitted from wards compared to those coming from emergency departments.
MEA Pediatric Critical Care Market Trends
The MEA pediatric critical care market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing healthcare investments and rising awareness of pediatric health issues. The market is projected to expand significantly due to advancements in medical technology, a growing pediatric population, and the rising incidence of chronic conditions among children.
The pediatric critical care market in South Africa is expanding significantly, driven by increased healthcare investments and a rising pediatric population. Enhanced medical technologies and a growing focus on specialized care for critically ill children are further propelling this growth.
This report forecasts revenue growth at country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2021 to 2033. For this study, Nova one advisor, Inc. has segmented the Pediatric Critical Care market.
By Treatment
By Hospital Ownership
By Region
Cross-segment Market Size and Analysis for Mentioned Segments
Additional Company Profiles
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Additional Countries (Apart
From Mentioned Countries)
Country/Region-specific Report
Go To Market Strategy
Region Specific Market DynamicsRegion Level Market Share Import Export AnalysisProduction AnalysisOthers