Bronchitis - Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast - 2034

Key Highlights:

• Bronchitis is characterized by inflammation of the bronchial tubes, causing persistent cough with mucus and impaired airflow, often linked to infections, irritants, or chronic respiratory disorders. In the umbrella COPD study, most patients investigated were diagnosed with bronchitis.
• According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the United States was reported at 6.5% in 2021.
• Secondary analysis indicates that in the US, bronchitis shows a higher prevalence in females (5.1%) compared to males (2.3%), highlighting a distinct gender disparity in its occurrence.
• The rising prevalence of bronchitis is driven by increased exposure to air pollution, tobacco smoke, and occupational irritants. Urbanization, climate change, and respiratory infections also contribute. Additionally, aging populations and heightened awareness have led to more diagnoses, highlighting the need for improved prevention and respiratory health strategies.
• OHTUVAYRE (ensifentrine), the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved treatment for bronchitis, is gaining traction in the market. However, there remains a pressing need for more targeted therapeutic options to address the diverse underlying mechanisms and improve patient outcomes.
• Pharmaceutical companies such as Chiesi with tanimilast and others are actively engaged in developing treatments for chronic bronchitis. The approval of these innovative therapies has the potential to significantly expand the market, enhance patient care, and drive substantial revenue growth through increased demand and broader adoption of advanced respiratory solutions.
• Current bronchitis treatment focuses on symptom relief and supportive care. It includes bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and antibiotics for bacterial infections. Lifestyle changes like smoking cessation and avoiding irritants are essential. Chronic cases may require pulmonary rehabilitation. Despite available options, more targeted and long-term therapies are still needed for optimal management.

DelveInsight's comprehensive report titled "Bronchitis - Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast - 2034" offers a detailed analysis of bronchitis. The report presents historical and projected epidemiological data covering total diagnosed prevalent cases of COPD, total diagnosed prevalent cases of bronchitis, type-specific diagnosed prevalent cases of bronchitis and gender-specific diagnosed prevalent cases of bronchitis. In addition to epidemiology, the market report encompasses various aspects related to the patient population. These aspects include the diagnosis process, prescription patterns, physician perspectives, market accessibility, treatment options, and prospective developments in the market across 7MM: the United States, EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), the United Kingdom, and Japan, spanning from 2020 to 2034.

The report analyzes the existing treatment practices and unmet medical requirements in bronchitis. It evaluates the market potential and identifies potential business prospects for enhancing therapies or interventions. This valuable information enables stakeholders to make well-informed decisions regarding product development and strategic planning for the market.

Bronchitis Overview

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, the airways that carry air to and from the lungs. It can be classified into two types: acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis is a common condition, usually caused by viral infections such as the common cold, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), or COVID-19. In some cases, bacterial infections may also be responsible. The illness typically lasts for a week to ten days, although the cough may persist for several weeks. Most people recover without medical treatment, and the condition is often contagious due to its viral origin. Chronic bronchitis, on the other hand, is a long-term condition defined by a productive cough that lasts for at least three months and recurs for two consecutive years. It is one of the key components of COPD, often appearing alongside emphysema and asthma. Chronic bronchitis results from prolonged inflammation of the airway lining, leading to swelling and excessive mucus production, which makes breathing more difficult. Risk factors for chronic bronchitis include cigarette smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke, environmental irritants like dust and fumes, older age, a family history of COPD, and underlying respiratory conditions such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

The symptoms of both acute and chronic bronchitis are similar and include a persistent cough with mucus, chest pain, fatigue, mild fever (below 100.4°F), shortness of breath, and wheezing. While acute bronchitis typically resolves on its own within a few weeks, chronic bronchitis requires ongoing management and can significantly impact respiratory health over time. Young children, the elderly, and individuals with serious health conditions are particularly at risk for complications.

Bronchitis Diagnosis and Treatment Overview

Bronchitis diagnosis begins with evaluating symptoms that often mimic a common cold in the early days. To determine severity, healthcare providers assess vital signs such as oxygen saturation, pulse rate, temperature, and respiratory rate. If these are normal and there are no signs of pneumonia during physical examination, further testing is typically unnecessary, though a chest X-ray may be used to rule out other conditions. Acute bronchitis usually resolves on its own, but symptom relief can be achieved through home care. Over-the-counter medications like dextromethorphan or guaifenesin may help suppress cough or loosen mucus. Drinking warm fluids with honey, using throat lozenges, keeping a humidifier nearby, and using prescribed inhaled medications such as albuterol can also ease discomfort. Antibiotics are only prescribed if a bacterial infection is confirmed, more commonly in children.

Treatment for chronic bronchitis focuses on improving breathing and controlling symptoms. Quitting smoking is essential. Medications may be prescribed to clear airways or prevent worsening symptoms. Oxygen therapy can support better breathing, and pulmonary rehabilitation teaches techniques like pursed-lip breathing to enhance lung function. Chronic bronchitis requires long-term management and lifestyle changes to maintain respiratory health and prevent complications. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.

Bronchitis Epidemiology

The bronchitis epidemiology chapter in the report provides historical as well as forecasted epidemiology segmented by total diagnosed prevalent cases of COPD, total diagnosed prevalent cases of bronchitis, type-specific diagnosed prevalent cases of bronchitis and gender-specific diagnosed prevalent cases of bronchitis in the 7MM covering, the United States, EU4 countries (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), United Kingdom, and Japan from 2020 to 2034.

Key Findings

• Secondary analysis from 2018 suggests that nearly 10 million the US adults were affected by chronic bronchitis, representing a substantial share of the population and emphasizing its continued significance as a public health concern.
• Based on secondary analysis, around 5% of people in the United States each year report being diagnosed with acute bronchitis by a physician.
• According to a conducted study, chronic bronchitis was present in around 15% of patients diagnosed with COPD in Italy, indicating a notable subset within the broader COPD population.
• Secondary sources report that a patient survey by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) estimated COPD prevalence in Japan at approximately 0.4%.

Bronchitis Market Outlook

The bronchitis therapeutics market is further expected to increase by the major drivers, such as the rising prevalence population, technological advancements, and upcoming therapies in the forecast period (2025-2034).

The treatment landscape for bronchitis primarily focuses on alleviating symptoms and improving respiratory function. Acute cases are often managed with rest, hydration, and medications such as bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and antibiotics when bacterial infection is present. Chronic bronchitis, a form of COPD, requires more sustained interventions including inhaled therapies, pulmonary rehabilitation, and lifestyle modifications like smoking cessation. A notable advancement is the US FDA-approved therapy OHTUVAYRE (ensifentrine), which combines bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory effects, offering improved lung function and symptom control. Despite this progress, there remains a need for more targeted treatments to address the underlying causes and enhance long-term disease management.

With ongoing research and continued dedication, the future holds hope for even more effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure for this challenging condition. According to DelveInsight, the Bronchitis market in the 7MM is expected to change significantly during the forecast period (2025-2034).

Bronchitis Drug Chapters

Marketed Drugs

OHTUVAYRE (ensifentrine): Verona Pharma/Merck

OHTUVAYRE is a groundbreaking dual inhibitor that selectively targets the enzymes phosphodiesterase 3 and 4 (PDE3 and PDE4), offering both bronchodilator and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory benefits in a single compound. It is administered directly to the lungs using a standard jet nebulizer, eliminating the need for high inspiratory flow or intricate hand-breath coordination.

• In July 2025, Merck stated the acquisition of Verona Pharma, enhancing its portfolio with the addition of OHTUVAYRE (ensifentrine), a first-in-class maintenance therapy for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adults positioned to fuel growth well into the next decade.
• In June 2024, Verona Pharma reported that the US FDA had approved OHTUVAYRE (ensifentrine) for the maintenance treatment of COPD in adults. COPD is a long-term lung condition that encompasses chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or a combination of both.

Emerging Drugs

Tanimilast: CHIESI Farmaceutici

Tanimilast (international non-proprietary name CHF6001) is a next-generation, highly potent, and selective inhaled PDE4 inhibitor with demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects across multiple inflammatory cell types, including leukocytes from asthma and COPD patients, as well as in preclinical rodent models of lung inflammation. Its progression in clinical trials reflects encouraging pharmacodynamic outcomes along with a favorable safety and tolerability profile.

• The drug is currently in Phase III of clinical trial for the management of COPD and chronic bronchitis.

Bronchitis Market Segmentation

DelveInsight's 'Bronchitis - Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast - 2034' report provides a detailed outlook of the current and future bronchitis market, segmented within countries, by therapies, and by classes. Further, the market of each region is then segmented by each therapy to provide a detailed view of the current and future market share of all therapies.

Bronchitis Market Size by Countries

The bronchitis market size is assessed separately for various countries, including the United States, EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), the United Kingdom, and Japan. In 2024, the United States held a significant share of the overall 7MM bronchitis market, primarily attributed to the country's higher prevalence of the condition and the elevated cost of the available treatments. This dominance is projected to persist, especially with the potential early introduction of new products.

Bronchitis Market Size by Therapies

Bronchitis Market Size by Therapies is categorized into current and emerging markets for the study period 2020-2034.

Bronchitis Drugs Uptake

This section focuses on the sales uptake of potential bronchitis drugs that have recently been launched or are anticipated to be launched in the bronchitis market between 2020 and 2034. It estimates the market penetration of bronchitis drugs for a given country, examining their impact within and across classes and segments. It also touches upon the financial and regulatory decisions contributing to the probability of success (PoS) of the drugs in the Bronchitis market.

The emerging bronchitis therapies are analyzed based on various attributes such as safety and efficacy in randomized clinical trials, order of entry and other market dynamics, and the unmet need they fulfill in the bronchitis market.

Bronchitis Market Access and Reimbursement

DelveInsight's 'Bronchitis - Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast - 2034' report provides a descriptive overview of the market access and reimbursement scenario of Bronchitis. This section includes a detailed analysis of the country-wise healthcare system for each therapy, enlightening the market access, reimbursement policies, and health technology assessments.

Key Opinion Leader (KOL) Views

To keep up with current bronchitis market trends and fill gaps in secondary findings, we interview KOLs and SMEs' working in the bronchitis domain. Their opinion helps understand and validate current and emerging therapies and treatment patterns or Bronchitis market trends. This will support the clients in potential upcoming novel treatments by identifying the overall scenario of the market and the bronchitis unmet needs.

Bronchitis: KOL Insights

DelveInsight's analysts connected with 20+ KOLs to gather insights; however, interviews were conducted with 10+ KOLs in the 7MM. These KOLs were from organizations, institutes, and hospitals, such as, CDC, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, US, Westdeutsches Lungenzentrum am Universitatsklinikum Essen, Germany; Service de pneumologie, Hotel-Dieu, Paris, France; University of Messina, Messina, Italy; Tarraco Primary Health Centre, Tarragona, Spain; OMRON Healthcare, UK; Department of Internal Medicine, Nomura Municipal Hospital, Ehime, Japan, among others.

"As per KOL from the US, "The approval of OHTUVAYRE has been recognized as a major advancement in COPD management, and its novel therapeutic profile is believed to have the potential to transform the existing treatment paradigm for patients living with COPD."

"As per KOL from the UK, "Despite available treatments, bronchitis especially chronic forms remains under-addressed. There is a critical need for targeted therapies that address underlying inflammation and disease progression. Improved diagnostic tools, personalized treatment approaches, and greater access to care are essential to enhance outcomes and reduce the long-term burden on patients and healthcare systems."

"As per KOL from Japan, " Current bronchitis management lacks targeted therapies addressing chronic progression, with limited focus on prevention strategies, early detection, and reducing recurrent episodes, leaving substantial gaps in long-term patient outcomes and respiratory health preservation."

Competitive Intelligence Analysis

We conduct a competitive and market intelligence analysis of the bronchitis. Market, utilizing various competitive intelligence tools such as SWOT analysis and market entry strategies. The inclusion of these analyses is contingent upon data availability, ensuring a comprehensive and well-informed assessment of the market landscape and competitive dynamics.

Bronchitis Pipeline Development Activities

The report offers an analysis of therapeutic candidates in Phase II and III stages and examines companies involved in developing targeted therapeutics for bronchitis. It provides valuable insights into the advancements and progress of potential treatments in clinical development for this condition.

Pipeline Development Activities

The report covers information on collaborations, acquisition and merger, licensing, patent details, and other information for emerging bronchitis therapies.

Bronchitis Report Insights

• Bronchitis Patient Population
• Therapeutic Approaches
• Bronchitis Pipeline Analysis
• Bronchitis Market Size and Trends
• Bronchitis Market Opportunities
• Impact of Upcoming Therapies

Bronchitis Report Key Strengths

• 10 Years Forecast
• The 7MM Coverage
• Bronchitis Epidemiology Segmentation
• Key Cross Competition
• Bronchitis Drugs Uptake

Bronchitis Report Assessment

• Bronchitis Current Treatment Practices
• Unmet Needs
• Bronchitis Product Profiles
• Bronchitis Market Attractiveness

Key Questions:

• How common is bronchitis?
• What are the key findings of bronchitis epidemiology across the 7MM, and which country will have the highest number of patients during the study period (2020-2034)?
• What are the currently available treatments for bronchitis?
• What are the disease risk, burden, and unmet needs of bronchitis?
• At what CAGR is the bronchitis market and its epidemiology is expected to grow in the 7MM during the forecast period (2025-2034)?
• How would the unmet needs impact the bronchitis market dynamics and subsequently influence the analysis of the related trends?
• What would be the forecasted patient pool of bronchitis in the 7MM covering the United States, EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), the United Kingdom, and Japan?
• Among EU4 and the UK, which country will have the highest number of patients during the forecast period (2025-2034)?
• How many companies are currently developing therapies for the treatment of bronchitis?

Reasons to buy:

• The report will help in developing business strategies by understanding the latest trends and changing treatment dynamics driving the bronchitis market.
• Insights on patient burden/disease prevalence, evolution in diagnosis, and factors contributing to the change in the epidemiology of the disease during the forecast years.
• To understand the existing market opportunity in varying geographies and the growth potential over the coming years.
• Distribution of historical and current patient share based on real-world prescription data along with reported sales of current treatment in the US, EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), the UK, and Japan.
• Identification of strong upcoming players in the market will help in devising strategies that will help in getting ahead of competitors.
• Detailed analysis and ranking of class-wise potential current and emerging therapies under the attribute analysis section to provide visibility around leading classes.
• Highlights of market access and reimbursement policies of approved therapies, barriers to accessibility of off-label expensive therapies, and patient assistance programs.
• To understand the perspective of KOL around the accessibility, acceptability, and compliance-related challenges of existing treatment to overcome barriers in the future.
• Detailed insights on the unmet needs of the existing market so that the upcoming players can strengthen their development and launch strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are the treatment goals for bronchitis?

The primary treatment goals for bronchitis are to relieve symptoms, promote healing, and prevent complications. This includes reducing coughing and inflammation, improving airflow, and managing any underlying infections. For chronic bronchitis, long-term goals focus on slowing disease progression, enhancing lung function, and improving quality of life. Preventing exacerbations and minimizing exposure to irritants like smoke or pollutants are also key to maintaining respiratory health and reducing flare-ups.

2. What are the challenges in managing bronchitis?

Managing bronchitis presents several challenges, including distinguishing between viral and bacterial causes, which affects treatment decisions. Chronic bronchitis requires long-term care and lifestyle changes, often hindered by poor patient adherence. Environmental factors like pollution and smoking complicate recovery. Limited access to healthcare and delayed diagnosis can worsen outcomes. Additionally, recurrent infections and resistance to antibiotics in some cases make effective management more difficult, especially in vulnerable populations.

3. What are the key factors driving the growth of the bronchitis market?

Key factors driving growth in the bronchitis market include rising prevalence of respiratory diseases due to pollution and smoking, increasing awareness of early diagnosis, and advancements in treatment options. Aging populations and growing demand for personalized medicine also contribute. Additionally, improved healthcare infrastructure, expanding access to care in emerging markets, and ongoing research into novel therapies and vaccines are fueling market expansion and innovation in bronchitis management.

4. How will the bronchitis market and epidemiology forecast report benefit the clients?

The bronchitis market and epidemiology forecast report offers clients strategic insights into disease prevalence, patient segmentation, and market dynamics. It helps identify commercial opportunities, assess treatment gaps, and support planning for product development, market entry, or expansion. The report also aids stakeholders in understanding regulatory landscapes, forecasting trends, and making data-driven investment or policy decisions.