The global radiotherapy market was valued at $6.5 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach $11.9 billion by 2031, expanding at a CAGR of 6.3% during the forecast period. Radiotherapy, also known as radiation therapy, is a key modality in cancer treatment, used to destroy malignant cells, shrink tumors, and support post-surgical recovery in cancer patients.
🔍 Market Dynamics & Key Insights ✅ Market Drivers Rising global cancer incidence – projected to reach 29.5 million new cases annually by 2040.
Increasing adoption of radiotherapy procedures due to clinical effectiveness and precision.
Technological advancements in radiotherapy equipment such as image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), proton therapy, and stereotactic radiosurgery.
Growing awareness through public campaigns about early cancer detection and modern treatment options.
🚫 Restraints Lack of trained professionals to handle advanced radiotherapy equipment.
Difficulty in tumor localization in certain cancers, which can reduce treatment efficacy.
High setup costs and limited access to radiotherapy in low-income countries.
📈 Opportunities Rapid expansion in emerging economies due to healthcare infrastructure upgrades.
Rising demand for non-invasive and precision oncology treatments.
Increasing use of AI and image-guidance technologies to enhance treatment accuracy.
🧩 Market Segmentation By Type External Beam Radiotherapy (EBRT) – Dominated the market with 80% share in 2021; continues to lead due to precision targeting and broader clinical applications.
Internal Radiotherapy (Brachytherapy) – Increasingly adopted for prostate, breast, and gynecological cancers.
Systemic Radiotherapy – Administers radioactive substances through the bloodstream for metastatic cancers.
By End User Hospitals & Clinics – Largest segment in 2021, due to availability of comprehensive oncology infrastructure.
Others (Cancer centers, specialty clinics) – Fastest growing segment, expected to register CAGR of 6.4%, driven by outpatient treatment demand and specialized care.
🌐 Regional Outlook Region Key Insights North America Largest market in 2021 due to strong healthcare infrastructure, high cancer prevalence, and presence of leading radiotherapy manufacturers. Europe Accounted for 25%+ share in 2021; growth supported by universal healthcare access and early adoption of advanced radiotherapy systems. Asia-Pacific Fastest growing region, expected to expand at CAGR of 7.4% due to rising cancer cases, healthcare modernization in India and China, and rising public-private investments. LAMEA Growing awareness and increasing medical tourism are driving radiotherapy adoption in countries like Brazil and UAE.
🔬 Radiotherapy in Cancer Care Radiotherapy plays a crucial role in cancer treatment protocols:
Used in over 50% of all cancer cases, either alone or in combination with surgery or chemotherapy.
Effective for localized tumors, and as adjuvant therapy to reduce recurrence.
Common cancers treated include breast, lung, prostate, colorectal, bladder, and brain.
🏥 Cancer Trends Driving Market Growth 1.8 million+ new cases in the U.S. in 2020; major cancer types include breast, lung, and colorectal.
Male cancer mortality rate: 189.5 per 100,000; female: 135.7 per 100,000.
Survivorship on the rise – estimated 22.2 million cancer survivors in the U.S. by 2030, creating demand for follow-up radiotherapy services.
🧪 Leading Companies in the Radiotherapy Market Key players actively shaping the industry through innovation, product launches, and global expansion include:
Accuray Incorporated
Elekta AB
Siemens Healthineers
Mevion Medical Systems
IBA (Ion Beam Applications SA)
Isoray Medical Inc.
Eckert & Ziegler Group
ICAD Inc.
Nordion, Inc.
Becton, Dickinson and Company
These companies are focusing on next-gen solutions such as proton therapy, adaptive radiotherapy, and real-time tumor tracking to enhance treatment outcomes.
📊 Conclusion The radiotherapy market is entering a dynamic phase of transformation, powered by technological innovation, expanding clinical applications, and a growing global cancer burden. With rising investments and strategic partnerships, the market is poised to deliver high-precision, patient-centric care across all regions.