PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1933332
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1933332
The global positron emission tomography (PET) scan market is witnessing steady growth due to the increasing burden of chronic diseases, rising demand for early and accurate diagnostics, and continuous advancements in imaging technologies. Positron emission tomography is a nuclear imaging technique that enables visualization of metabolic and physiological activities within the body, making it highly valuable for oncology, cardiology, and neurology applications.
In 2025, the global PET scan market size was valued at USD 18.71 billion. The market is projected to grow from USD 19.46 billion in 2026 to USD 29.67 billion by 2034, registering a CAGR of 5.41% during the forecast period (2026-2034). North America dominated the global market with a 52.38% market share in 2025, supported by advanced healthcare infrastructure, strong reimbursement frameworks, and widespread adoption of hybrid imaging systems.
COVID-19 Impact
The COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on the PET scan market due to lockdowns and the postponement of elective and non-emergency imaging procedures. Nuclear medicine services, including PET scans, experienced a decline in procedure volumes during 2020. However, since 2021, the resumption of diagnostic services and improved patient outcomes have supported market recovery. The growing importance of PET imaging in oncology and neurology has enabled the market to regain momentum and maintain steady growth during the forecast period.
Market Trends
Increasing Adoption of Hybrid Imaging Systems
One of the key trends shaping the PET scan market is the growing adoption of hybrid imaging systems such as PET/CT and PET/MRI. These systems combine functional and anatomical imaging, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, treatment planning, and disease monitoring. Guidelines published by the European Association of Nuclear Medicine (EANM) in 2023 have further supported the integration of PET/MRI into routine clinical practice.
Advancements in Radiotracer Development and AI Integration
Continuous advancements in radiotracer development are improving the detection and monitoring of cancers, neurological, and cardiovascular disorders. Additionally, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning is enhancing image reconstruction, reducing scan time, and improving workflow efficiency, thereby increasing PET scan adoption across healthcare facilities.
Market Growth Drivers
Rising Prevalence of Chronic Diseases
The rising incidence of cancer, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular diseases is a major driver of PET scan demand. PET imaging plays a critical role in early detection, disease staging, and treatment monitoring. According to WHO estimates, neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease continue to rise globally, boosting demand for advanced diagnostic imaging.
Growing Demand for Early and Accurate Diagnosis
Government initiatives, increased healthcare spending, and investments in diagnostic infrastructure are driving demand for early and precise diagnostic tools. PET scans provide high sensitivity and specificity, making them an essential component of modern diagnostic pathways.
Restraining Factors
Despite favorable growth prospects, the market faces challenges due to high equipment and procedure costs, limited availability of radiopharmaceuticals, and restricted reimbursement policies in emerging countries. Additionally, the shortage of skilled professionals capable of operating advanced imaging systems remains a key constraint, particularly in developing regions.
By Indication
The oncology segment dominated the market with a 66.93% share in 2026, driven by the rising global cancer burden and increasing use of PET scans for diagnosis and treatment monitoring. Neurology and cardiology segments also hold significant shares due to increasing prevalence of neurological and cardiovascular disorders.
By Source of Payment
The public reimbursement segment accounted for a major share of 84.26% in 2026, supported by government healthcare funding and expanded reimbursement for PET imaging procedures in developed economies.
By Service Provider
Hospitals led the market with a 65.34% share in 2026, owing to advanced infrastructure, high patient volumes, and availability of hybrid imaging systems. Diagnostic centers are expected to witness steady growth due to increasing standalone imaging facilities.
Key Industry Players
Major players include RadNet, Inc., Sonic Healthcare Limited, Akumin Inc., Alliance Medical Limited, Apex Radiology, InHealth Group, and Novant Health. Strategic partnerships, AI integration, and expansion of imaging networks remain key competitive strategies.
Conclusion
The global positron emission tomography (PET) scan market is set for steady expansion, growing from USD 18.71 billion in 2025 to USD 29.67 billion by 2034. Rising prevalence of chronic diseases, increasing demand for early and accurate diagnostics, and technological advancements such as hybrid imaging and artificial intelligence are driving market growth. Although high costs, reimbursement limitations, and workforce shortages pose challenges, continued investments in healthcare infrastructure and innovation are expected to support sustained market development over the forecast period.
Segmentation By Indication,Source of Payment, Service Provider, and Region
By Indication * Oncology
By Source of Payment * Public
By Service Provider * Hospitals
By Region * North America (By Indication, By Source of Payment, By Service Provider, By Country)