The global hospital acquired infection control market was valued at $29.1 billion in 2021 and is expected to reach $31.3 billion by 2026, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 1.5%, according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets.\

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The modest growth expected in the market can be attributed to factors like the high incidence of hospital-acquired infections, an increasing number of surgical procedures, a growing geriatric population and rising chronic diseases, and greater awareness of hygiene due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent developments like expanded production of medical protective equipment and single-use items are also contributing.

However, concerns about the safety of reprocessed medical instruments and the high costs associated with endoscope reprocessing in developing countries could restrain market expansion to some extent over the forecast period.

North America held the largest share of the global hospital infection control market in 2021. Growth there is being driven by rising consumer focus on disease prevention and healthy lifestyles, leading to greater demand for sterilization and disinfection products and services. The region’s large and expanding geriatric population, which increases susceptibility to chronic disease, is another major factor. Favorable regulations are also propelling the regional market.

The ethylene oxide (EtO) sterilization segment made up the largest share of the market globally in 2021. Ethylene oxide is widely used to sterilize heat-sensitive items like plastics and electronics. There are some health hazards associated with EtO, but the surge in demand for personal protective equipment during the pandemic increased its adoption for one-time-use medical supplies. About 50% of devices requiring sterilization are treated with EtO.

Among end users, ambulatory surgical and diagnostic centers are anticipated to exhibit the fastest growth rate over the forecast period due to factors like rising adoption of single-use devices, increasing demand for minimally invasive procedures, and growing investment in outpatient services.

The report identifies leading players in the global hospital infection control market as STERIS plc, Sotera Health Company, Getinge AB, Advanced Sterilization Products, Ecolab Inc., 3M Company, and Belimed AG, among others. Recent developments highlighted include acquisitions, capacity expansions, and new product launches.

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In 2021, STERIS acquired Cantel Medical to expand its sterilization services portfolio, while Sotera Health increased European capacity through a facility expansion in France. Getinge launched a new steam sterilizer for hospitals last year as well, and both Sotera Health and STERIS made strategic acquisitions to grow their contract sterilization businesses.

So while modest overall growth is expected due to offsetting factors, particular segments like ambulatory care and certain regions like North America may present strong opportunities. Corporate consolidation also appears to be an ongoing trend in this market.