The global head and neck cancer therapeutics market size is estimated to reach USD 6.25 billion by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 11.95% from 2025 to 2033, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Increasing advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of head and neck cancer (HNC) are anticipated to propel market growth, as they are cost-effective and more specific to target over surgeries. The increasing prevalence of different types of HNCs and the growing geriatric population are major drivers of the market.
According to the Cancer Research Institute, in 2021, approximately 54,000 people were diagnosed with different types of HNC and about 11,000 deaths were reported in the U.S. Heavy alcohol consumption, prolonged sun exposure, cancer-causing viral infection such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and tobacco consumption are some of the major factors contribute to rising incidence of various head and neck cancers worldwide.
Furthermore, according to the United Nations, it was estimated that, in 2020, there were around 727 million people aged 60 years and above worldwide. In addition, the geriatric population is expected to increase from 9.3% in 2020 to 16% in 2050. Aging weakens the immune system and makes people susceptible to different types HNCs, consequently, increasing the demand for therapeutic drugs for the treatment of disease.
Moreover, an increase in R&D activities for the development of novel targeted drugs and a multidisciplinary therapeutic approach is expected to lead to an increased survival rate of patients suffering from head and neck cancers. For instance, Merck/Debiopharm’s Xevinapant is currently in phase III clinical trials for the treatment of squamous head and neck cancer. It has received breakthrough therapy designation from the U.S. FDA.
Supportive reimbursement policies are also expected to drive market growth. Several organizations provide financial assistance to patients and their caregivers for purchasing medicines. For instance, in July 2022, British Colombia Cancer included Capecitabine, Carboplatin, Cetuximab, Cisplatin, Docetaxel, Doxorubicin, Fluorouracil, and Leucovorin Calcium in their benefit drug list. Drugs included in this list are applicable for reimbursement for approved indications.
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Immunotherapy led the market and accounted for 60.2% of the global revenue share in 2024 and is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period.
The injectable segment dominated the market with the largest revenue share of 90.1% in 2024. Injectable medications play an important role in systemic therapies, delivering targeted agents to combat malignancy cells.
The retail and specialty pharmacies segment dominated the market with the largest revenue share of 56.9% in 2024 and is expected to grow at the fastest CAR during the forecast period.
The head and neck cancer therapeutics market in Asia Pacific is expected to register the fastest CAGR of 13.50% over the forecast period owing to the increasing prevalence of head & neck cancer, growing awareness about malignancy treatment, rising disposable income, and increasing healthcare reforms.
Grand View Research has segmented the global head and neck cancer therapeutics market based on on therapy type, route of administration, distribution channel, and region:
Head And Neck Cancer Therapeutics Therapy Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Chemotherapy
Immunotherapy
Targeted Therapy
Head And Neck Cancer Therapeutics Route of Administration Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Injectable
Oral
Head And Neck Cancer Therapeutics Distribution Channel Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Retail and Specialty Pharmacies
Hospital Pharmacies
Online Pharmacies
Head And Neck Cancer Therapeutics Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
North America
U.S.
Canada
Mexico
Europe
UK
Germany
France
Italy
Spain
Denmark
Sweden
Norway
Asia Pacific
Japan
China
India
Australia
South Korea
Thailand
Latin America
Brazil
Argentina
Middle East & Africa
South Africa
Saudi Arabia
UAE
Kuwait
List of Key Players in Head And Neck Cancer Therapeutics Market
Eli Lilly and Company
Sanofi
Merck & Co., Inc.
Cumberland Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Bristol-Myers Squibb Company
AstraZeneca
Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited
Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd.
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