Medical X-ray Market – By Type, By Technology, By Portability, By Application, By End Use & Forecast, 2024 – 2032

Medical X-ray Market Size

The global medical X-ray market size was valued at around USD 13.2 billion in 2023 and is estimated to grow at 4.9% CAGR from 2024 to 2032. Medical X-rays serve as a diagnostic imaging tool, primarily focusing on visualizing the body's internal structures, including bones, organs, and tissues.
 

As a form of electromagnetic radiation, X-rays can penetrate the body. When aimed at a specific body part, different tissues absorb varying levels of radiation, resulting in an image that highlights these disparities.
 

The expansion of healthcare facilities and the improvement of diagnostic capabilities in emerging markets are driving market growth. Developing countries are investing in modern healthcare infrastructure, including advanced X-ray systems, to meet the increasing demand for diagnostic imaging services. For instance, according to the India Brand Equity Foundation, an initiative of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, from April 2000 to March 2024, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows into hospitals and diagnostic centers totaled USD 10.26 billion, while medical and surgical appliances attracted USD 3.28 billion.
 

Additionally, growing awareness of the benefits of early disease detection and advancements in mobile and portable X-ray devices are promoting the wider adoption of X-ray imaging, further fueling market expansion. The rise in the aging population, which increases the need for diagnostic imaging services for age-related conditions like osteoporosis and cardiovascular diseases, is also contributing to the market's growth. Moreover, government initiatives to improve access to healthcare in remote and underserved regions are boosting the demand for medical X-ray systems. Innovations in X-ray technology, such as digital radiography, are also driving the market, offering enhanced image quality, faster processing times, and reduced radiation exposure, making these systems more appealing to healthcare providers.
 

Medical X-ray Market Trends

• The shift from traditional analog and computed radiography (CR) systems to digital radiography (DR) is propelling market growth. Digital X-rays, known for their superior image quality, quicker results, and minimized radiation exposure, are witnessing heightened adoption in healthcare facilities. Moreover, technological innovations like AI integration, mobile X-ray systems, and wireless DR detectors are bolstering both diagnostic accuracy and operational efficiency in radiological procedures.
   
• Furthermore, heightened investments from both government and private sectors in healthcare facilities, especially in emerging markets like China and India, are catalyzing the adoption of advanced X-ray machines. This momentum is mirrored in the burgeoning diagnostic imaging centers, which are anticipated to register the most significant growth rate in the near future.
   

Medical X-ray Market Analysis

Based on type, the market is bifurcated into digital and analog. The digital segment dominated the market with the largest revenue of USD 10.5 billion in 2023.
 

• The increasing integration of digital X-ray systems with telemedicine platforms enables remote consultations and diagnostic reviews, further enhancing their utility and adoption. Technological advancements, such as wireless and portable digital X-ray systems, contribute to their growing use in diverse clinical settings.
   
• The emphasis on regulatory compliance and quality assurance also drives the adoption of digital X-ray systems, as they align with stringent healthcare standards.
   
• A clinical evaluation published in the European Radiology journal demonstrated that AI-assisted X-ray systems can significantly improve the detection rates of subtle lung nodules, enhancing early diagnosis capabilities.
   
• These systems capture and process images more rapidly, improving workflow efficiency and reducing patient wait times. According to a study published in the Journal of Digital Imaging, digital radiography can reduce examination time by up to 50% compared to conventional film-based systems, significantly improving patient throughput.
   
• Therefore, these factors collectively contribute to the expanding adoption and significant market presence of digital X-ray systems.
   

Based on technology the medical X-ray market is segmented into digital radiography, computed radiography, and film-based radiography. The digital radiography segment dominated the market with the largest revenue of USD 6.2 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.1% over the forecast period.
 

• This expansion is largely driven by the technology's ability to deliver high-resolution images with enhanced clarity and accuracy, which are vital for precise medical diagnoses. The system's efficiency in capturing and processing images quickly contributes to faster turnaround times and improved patient throughput.
   
• Additionally, digital radiography integrates smoothly with modern healthcare IT infrastructure, enabling better data management and accessibility. The reduction in operational costs associated with digital radiography, stemming from the elimination of film and chemical processing, further supports its economic appeal.
   
• Rapid technological advancements, such as the development of portable and wireless DR systems, contribute to the segment's growth by offering increased flexibility and convenience.
   
• The continuous reduction in the cost of digital radiography equipment makes it more accessible to a broader range of healthcare facilities. The increasing focus on patient safety and quality control drives the adoption of DR systems due to their superior image quality and lower radiation doses.
   

Based on portability, the market is bifurcated into fixed systems and portable systems. The fixed systems segment dominated the market with the largest revenue share of 62.4% in 2023 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR over the forecast period.
 

• Fixed X-ray systems have experienced significant technological advancements that have notably enhanced image quality, efficiency, and diagnostic capabilities. Innovations such as digital radiography and advanced imaging software have markedly improved the accuracy and speed of diagnoses, making these systems increasingly valuable in clinical settings.
   
• For instance, GE HealthCare's Definium 646 HD exemplifies these advancements with its versatile design, advanced image processing powered by Helix 2.0, and support for multiple configurations. The system's automated exam capabilities allow for rapid and seamless acquisition of multiple images, while its expanded suite of workflow automation tools, including the AutoRad suite, facilitates effortless patient positioning and efficient X-ray exams.
   
• Additionally, the growing emphasis on preventive healthcare and early disease detection has led to increased utilization of diagnostic imaging, further accelerating the adoption and market growth of fixed X-ray systems.
   

Based on application, the medical X-ray market is segmented into dental, veterinary, mammography, chest, cardiovascular, orthopedics, and other applications. The chest segment held the largest revenue of USD 3.1 billion in 2023. The dental segment is further sub-segmented into intraoral imaging and extraoral imaging. Additionally, the veterinary segment is further sub-segmented into oncology, orthopedics, cardiology, neurology, and other veterinary applications.
 

• The high demand for chest X-rays is largely driven by their critical role in diagnosing and monitoring respiratory conditions such as pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and tuberculosis. These diseases require frequent imaging to assess their progression and response to treatment.
   
• Additionally, chest X-rays are routinely used in preventive care, enabling early detection of potential issues during routine health check-ups. They are also a standard part of preoperative assessments, providing essential information about lung health, among others, to ensure patient safety before surgery.
   
• The increasing incidence of respiratory infections and chronic respiratory diseases is driving the demand for chest X-rays, particularly in regions with high pollution levels and dense populations.
   
• Thus, the significant market share of chest X-rays reflects their essential role in both diagnostic and preventive healthcare.
   

Based on end use, the medical X-ray market is segmented into hospitals, diagnostic centers, and other end users. The hospitals segment dominated the market with the largest revenue of USD 6.1 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR over the forecast period.
 

• The rise in the number of hospitals, driven by growing populations, urbanization, and advancements in medical technology, significantly impacts the demand for medical X-ray equipment. With new hospitals being established and existing facilities expanding, the need for advanced diagnostic imaging solutions naturally increases to accommodate a broader range of medical services and patient needs.
   
• In parallel, developing regions such as Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Africa are experiencing substantial investments in healthcare infrastructure and workforce. Governments and private investors are channelling significant funds into constructing new healthcare facilities and upgrading existing ones to meet evolving population needs.
   
• For instance, the UK's Department of Health and Social Care is investing EUR 15 million from its Official Development Assistance (ODA) budget to enhance healthcare infrastructure and workforce in Kenya, Nigeria, and Ghana. This investment, spanning from 2022 to 2025, aims to optimize and expand healthcare capacity in these African nations, thereby strengthening their resilience against global health threats.
   
• Therefore, as healthcare infrastructure continues to advance, the corresponding demand for medical X-ray systems in hospitals is expected to rise. This growth is propelled by the increasing need for sophisticated diagnostic tools that support the expansion and enhancement of healthcare services worldwide.
   

North America medical X-ray market is forecast to reach USD 7.2 billion by 2032 due to the region's well-established healthcare infrastructure, which is essential for the adoption and integration of advanced technologies. U.S. dominated the North American market with the largest revenue of USD 4.3 billion in 2023.
 

• The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and orthopedic conditions is significantly boosting the demand for diagnostic imaging, including X-ray systems. For instance, according to the Global Cancer Observatory, approximately 89.1% of cancer cases in 2022 were reported in the U.S., while Canada accounted for about 10.9% of these incidences.
   
• Additionally, the rise in accidents and injuries in the region underscores the need for X-ray imaging for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Forbes reports that in 2022, there were 42,514 fatal car accidents on U.S. roadways, with 1,664,598 crashes resulting in injuries and 4,226,677 causing property damage. Overall, the total number of police-reported crashes reached 5,930,496.
   
• The expansion of telemedicine and remote healthcare services is also contributing to this growth. As more healthcare providers integrate telemedicine into their practice, the demand for high-quality diagnostic imaging, including X-rays, to support remote consultations and diagnostics is increasing.
   
• Therefore, these factors collectively highlight the growing importance and reliance on X-ray technology in addressing both chronic health conditions and trauma-related cases, contributing to the market's robust growth outlook.
   

The market in UK is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2024 to 2032.
 

• The National Health Service (NHS), as the UK's primary healthcare provider, significantly influences the X-ray systems market. Government funding for health services often includes investments in medical imaging technologies, directly impacting the demand for X-ray systems. According to NHS England, the diagnostic imaging budget for 2021/22 was USD 2.8 billion, representing a 20% increase from the previous year, indicating a growing emphasis on advanced imaging technologies.
   
• Additionally, the UK market is experiencing a notable transition towards digital radiography (DR) and computed radiography (CR) systems. These digital systems offer improved image quality, reduced radiation exposure, and enhanced workflow efficiency in hospitals and clinics.
   

Japan medical X-ray market is anticipated to witness lucrative growth between 2024 – 2032.
 

• Japan has one of the highest proportions of elderly citizens globally, with 29.1% of its population aged 65 or older as of 2021, according to the Statistics Bureau of Japan. This demographic shift has led to an increased incidence of chronic diseases, such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular conditions, which require frequent diagnostic imaging, including X-rays.
   
• Additionally, the Japanese government invests heavily in healthcare infrastructure and preventive care programs. According to the OECD, Japan's healthcare spending reached 11% of its GDP in 2019, above the OECD average of 8.8%. These policies, which promote early detection and treatment of diseases, drive the demand for diagnostic imaging, particularly X-rays.
   

The market in Saudi Arabia is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2024 to 2032.
 

• The Saudi government is investing significantly in healthcare infrastructure and modernization to enhance medical services. Key initiatives like Vision 2030 and the National Transformation Program focus on improving diagnostic capabilities, including medical imaging.
   
• According to the Saudi Ministry of Health, the healthcare budget for 2023 was set at USD 50.4 billion, representing a substantial 16.3% of the total government budget. These efforts aim to strengthen the country's healthcare system and expand access to advanced diagnostic tools.
   
• Additionally, Saudi Arabia is experiencing an increase in chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and cancer. This trend has intensified the demand for diagnostic imaging services. X-rays, in particular, play a vital role in the diagnosis and management of these health conditions.
   

Medical X-ray Market Share

The medical X-ray industry is a fragmented, dynamic, and rapidly evolving sector, characterized by significant technological advancements and competitive activities among leading players. Key market participants, including Canon, Fujifilm Holdings Corporation, and GE HealthCare Technologies, are driving innovation through advanced medical X-ray technologies, expanded product offerings, and strategic collaborations. Companies that successfully leverage these opportunities and address market challenges are well-positioned for success in the competitive medical X-ray landscape.
 

Medical X-ray Market Companies

Some of the eminent market participants operating in the medical X-ray industry include:

• Agfa-Gevaert Group
• Allengers Medical Systems
• Canon
• Carestream Health
• Dentsply Sirona
• Fujifilm Holdings Corporation
• GE HealthCare Technologies
• Hologic
• Koninklijke Philips N.V.
• Konica Minolta
• Midmark Corporation
• Neusoft Medical Systems
• Perlong Medical Equipment
• Samsung Electronics
• Shimadzu Corporation
• Siemens Healthineers
• Trivitron Healthcare
   

Medical X-ray Industry News

• In April 2024, Shimadzu Medical Systems USA (SMS), a subsidiary of Japan's Shimadzu Corporation, has acquired California X-ray Imaging Services, Inc. (CIS) to bolster its North American healthcare operations. This strategic move aimed to drive expansion in Northern California and Nevada, aligning with the company's commitment to surpassing customer expectations.
   
• In July 2024, GE HealthCare Technologies Inc. announced the acquisition of the clinical artificial intelligence (AI) software business of Intelligent Ultrasound Group PLC for a total consideration of approximately USD 51 million. The company planned to integrate these solutions into its ultrasound portfolio, thereby strengthening its capabilities with technology designed to improve workflows and enhance ease of use for the benefit of clinicians and patients.
   

The medical X-ray market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue in USD Million from 2021 – 2032 for the following segments:

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Market, By Type

• Digital
• Analog

Market, By Technology

• Film-based radiography
• Computed radiography
• Digital radiography

Market, By Portability

• Fixed systems
• Portable systems

Market, By Application

• Dental
  • Intraoral imaging
  • Extraoral imaging 
• Veterinary
  • Oncology
  • Orthopedics
  • Cardiology
  • Neurology
  • Other veterinary applications
• Mammography
• Chest
• Cardiovascular
• Orthopedics
• Other applications

Market, By End Use

• Hospitals
• Diagnostic centers
• Other end users

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America 
  • U.S.
  • Canada 
• Europe 
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy 
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • Vietnam
  • South Korea
  • Thailand
  • Oceania
  • Indonesia 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina 
• Middle East and Africa 
  • Egypt
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE