The global diabetic retinopathy (DR) market is experiencing steady growth, with projections indicating continued expansion in the coming years. According to Grand View Research, the market reached an estimated value of $9.48 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.4% from 2025 to 2030.
This growth is largely driven by the increasing number of older adults diagnosed with diabetes and the rising rate of diabetes-related vision loss. Advances in diagnostic technology, growing awareness, and new treatment options are also contributing to the market’s expansion.
Diabetic retinopathy is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina, often due to prolonged high blood sugar levels. It can lead to blurred vision and, in severe cases, permanent blindness. According to the International Diabetes Federation, 1 in 8 adults globally is expected to have diabetes by 2050. Factors such as aging, urbanization, obesity, and reduced physical activity are fueling this trend.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that DR accounts for 4.8% of the world’s 37 million cases of blindness. In the U.S. alone, the number of people living with DR is expected to reach nearly 11 million by 2030, according to the National Eye Institute.
Early detection remains key. A CDC analysis shows that over 90% of diabetes-related visual impairment can be prevented with early diagnosis and proper treatment. Managing blood glucose levels can reduce the risk of developing DR by 27%.
The market is also benefitting from continued investment in research and development. Companies are focusing on innovative products and technologies, and are expanding through mergers, acquisitions, and new regional partnerships. These strategies aim to meet rising global demand and increase market share.
One such initiative is led by Avant Technologies, Inc. and its joint venture partner, Ainnova Tech, Inc., which recently launched a diabetic retinopathy screening program in Central America. Partnering with Grupo Dökka, the program is being rolled out at Fischel and La Bomba Pharmacies.
The screenings use Ainnova’s Vision AI platform, which provides a fast, non-invasive scan of the retina. Diabetic customers are encouraged to schedule a free screening as part of the awareness initiative.
Vinicio Vargas, CEO of Ainnova, emphasized the importance of connecting patients with timely care. “Our goal is to close the patient care loop by uniting pharma, retail, ophthalmologists, and technology in a single experience focused on diabetic patient well-being,” he said. “Projects like this help us validate our model across different communities and expand more efficiently.”
Other companies are also advancing diabetes-related healthcare technology:
- Tandem Diabetes Care, Inc. recently partnered with Abbott to develop an integrated diabetes management system that combines insulin delivery with a dual glucose-ketone sensor. The new system aims to help patients avoid life-threatening diabetic ketoacidosis.
- Novo Nordisk A/S announced it will advance its subcutaneous and oral amycretin into phase 3 clinical trials for weight management, following feedback from regulatory agencies.
- Insulet Corporation revealed that its Omnipod 5 App for iPhone is now compatible with Dexcom’s G7 Continuous Glucose Monitoring system. This integration gives users a more streamlined and convenient diabetes management experience.
- Medtronic plc shared plans to launch a new diabetes-focused company called MiniMed. The move revives a historic brand that pioneered many early innovations in insulin pump technology and marks a renewed focus on advancing diabetes care.
The diabetic retinopathy market continues to be shaped by innovation, collaboration, and a growing global need for effective solutions. As cases of diabetes rise, so too does the urgency to provide early diagnosis and comprehensive care that can prevent avoidable vision loss.
Related Topics
