PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1930039
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1930039
The global chronic wound care market is experiencing steady growth due to the rising prevalence of chronic wounds, increasing geriatric population, and advancements in wound management technologies. In 2025, the global chronic wound care market size was valued at USD 15.27 billion. The market is projected to grow from USD 16.39 billion in 2026 to USD 29.22 billion by 2034, registering a CAGR of 7.50% during the forecast period (2026-2034).
North America dominated the market with a 37.42% share in 2025, supported by a high patient pool, higher treatment costs, and favorable reimbursement policies.
Chronic wounds are wounds that fail to heal within the expected time and require long-term medical intervention. These wounds are classified by the Wound Healing Society (WHS) into four main categories: diabetic ulcers, pressure ulcers, venous leg ulcers, and arterial ulcers. According to Mission Regional Medical Center data, around 6.7 million people globally suffer from chronic wounds, highlighting the substantial clinical and economic burden associated with these conditions.
Impact of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted the chronic wound care market during its early phase. Wound care procedures were classified as non-essential in several countries, leading to reduced patient visits as hospitals and wound clinics focused on emergency cases only. However, with the lifting of lockdowns in 2021, patient footfall increased, leading to renewed demand for wound dressings and devices. This recovery phase supported market stabilization and future growth.
Market Trends
Increasing Adoption of Active Therapies
The market is witnessing a rising adoption of active wound therapies, including bioactive dressings, skin grafts, and polymer-based wound dressings. Research studies published in 2021 and 2022 demonstrated that bioactive and biopolymer dressings significantly accelerate wound healing, particularly for diabetic foot ulcers. Continuous innovation in this segment is expected to boost market growth during the forecast period.
Market Growth Drivers
Rising Prevalence of Chronic Wounds
The increasing incidence of diabetes, pressure injuries, and venous leg ulcers is a major driver of market growth. In the U.S. alone, an estimated 1.0 to 3.0 million people suffer from pressure injuries annually, while approximately 5.0% of diabetic patients develop foot ulcers. These conditions demand long-term wound management, driving sustained demand for advanced wound care products.
Technological Advancements in Wound Care
Technological innovations such as advanced foam dressings, infection-prevention dressings, and AI-integrated wound management solutions are propelling market growth. AI-enabled systems, such as pressure-monitoring mattresses, help prevent pressure ulcers by continuously adjusting patient support based on body position and weight, enhancing treatment outcomes.
Restraining Factors
High Cost of Treatment and Limited Reimbursement
Despite strong demand, the market faces restraints due to the high cost of chronic wound treatment, especially for advanced dressings and active therapies. In emerging countries, inadequate reimbursement policies further restrict adoption. Treatment costs for hospital-acquired pressure ulcers can range from USD 894.7 to USD 98,730.2 per patient, limiting accessibility for many patients.
By Type
The market is segmented into diabetic ulcers, pressure ulcers, venous leg ulcers, and others.
The diabetic ulcers segment dominated with a 44.06% market share in 2026, driven by the global rise in diabetes prevalence.
By Product
Based on product, the market includes advanced wound dressings, wound care devices, active therapy, and others.
The advanced wound dressings segment held the largest share at 47.72% in 2026, due to high efficiency and comparatively lower cost.
By End User
Hospitals & wound clinics dominated with a 69.39% share in 2026, owing to high patient inflow. Home care settings are expected to grow rapidly as patients prefer personalized, at-home treatment.
Regional Analysis
Competitive Landscape
The market is consolidated, led by Smith & Nephew, ConvaTec Group PLC, 3M, and Molnlycke Health Care. Companies are focusing on new product launches, acquisitions, and distribution agreements to strengthen market presence.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the global chronic wound care market is poised for consistent growth, expanding from USD 15.27 billion in 2025 to USD 29.22 billion by 2034. Rising chronic disease prevalence, technological advancements, and increasing healthcare expenditure are key growth drivers. Although high treatment costs and reimbursement challenges persist, continuous innovation and expanding access to advanced wound care solutions are expected to sustain long-term market growth.
Segmentation
By Type
By Product
By End User
By Region