Global Cancer Cachexia Market Size Anticipated to Reach USD 3.0 Billion by 2033 | IMARC Group | Driven by Supportive Regulatory Policies

Global Cancer Cachexia Market Statistics, Outlook and Regional Analysis 2025-2033

The global cancer cachexia market size was valued at USD 2.2 Billion in 2024, and it is expected to reach USD 3.0 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 3.9% from 2025 to 2033.

The rising prevalence of cancer cases among the masses worldwide is impelling the market growth. Cancer cachexia is a complex metabolic syndrome characterized by severe weight loss, muscle atrophy, fatigue, and reduced appetite. Cachexia not only diminishes quality of life but also complicates cancer treatment and worsens survival outcomes. Certain cancers with higher cachexia incidence rates, such as gastrointestinal and lung cancers, are particularly on the rise in low- and middle-income countries, where awareness and treatment options may currently be limited but are expected to improve. As per the American Cancer Society, the number of cancer cases is predicted to increase to 35 million based solely on projected population growth by 2050.

The increasing geriatric population around the world is contributing to the market growth. Older individuals are more susceptible to both cancer and the associated complications of cachexia. Older adults experience a decline in cellular repair mechanisms, immune system efficiency, and hormonal balances, making them more prone to cancer development. In addition, older patients are at greater risk of cachexia because of their reduced muscle mass and metabolic reserves, making them more vulnerable to the effects of cancer-induced weight loss and muscle atrophy. Age-related conditions such as sarcopenia, frailty, and chronic illnesses exacerbate the severity of cachexia in older individuals. Furthermore, cachexia complicates cancer treatment by reducing the patient’s ability to tolerate chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery, necessitating specialized management approaches. Older adults already face nutritional challenges, which, combined with cachexia, demand comprehensive dietary and pharmacological interventions. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of persons aged 80 years or older is expected to reach 426 million by 2050.

Global Cancer Cachexia Market Statistics, By Region

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, North America accounted for the largest market share on account of the well-established healthcare infrastructure, geriatric population, and favorable reimbursement policies.

North America Cancer Cachexia Market Trends:

North America, particularly the United States, has a high incidence of cancer, which drives the demand for supportive care treatments like those addressing cachexia. The region's advanced healthcare systems enable better access to diagnostic tools, treatment protocols, and specialized care for cancer and cachexia. The presence of comprehensive cancer care centers in the region is impelling the market growth. Besides this, the availability of insurance coverage and reimbursement for cancer-related treatments is bolstering the market growth. Furthermore, the rising geriatric population, especially in the U.S., is supporting the market growth. As per the Population Reference Bureau (PRB), the number of Americans ages 65 and older is projected to reach 82 million by 2050.

Asia-Pacific Cancer Cachexia Market Trends:

The rising prevalence of cancer cases in the Asia Pacific region, especially in nations like China, India, and Japan, is impelling the market growth. Environmental reasons, poor lifestyles, and aging populations contribute to this increase. Governing agencies in the Asia Pacific region are investing in healthcare systems, which is leading to better access to cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Europe Cancer Cachexia Market Trends:

The Europe cancer cachexia market is characterized by increasing awareness, advancements in treatment, and robust healthcare infrastructure. Europe has a significant burden of cancer, with countries like Germany, France, Italy, and the UK experiencing high incidences. Europe is witnessing an increasing number of clinical trials focused on cancer cachexia, driven by pharmaceutical and biotech companies. 

Latin America Cancer Cachexia Market Trends:

The Latin American cancer cachexia market is growing steadily because of rising cancer cases, improving healthcare systems, and increasing awareness about cachexia management. The region is experiencing a rising prevalence of cancer on account of lifestyle changes, aging populations, and environmental factors.

Middle East and Africa Cancer Cachexia Market Trends:

The market for cancer cachexia in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region is progressively changing due to the expansion of healthcare infrastructure and an increased emphasis on supportive care. The infrastructure for oncology care, including specialized facilities and palliative care units, is being expanded in nations including South Africa, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Top Companies Leading in the Cancer Cachexia Industry

Some of the leading cancer cachexia market companies include AAVogen Inc., Actimed Therapeutics Ltd., Aphios Corporation, Artelo Biosciences Inc., AVEO Pharmaceuticals Inc., Fresenius Kabi AG (Fresenius SE & Co. KGaA), Helsinn Healthcare SA, Merck & Co. Inc., NGM Biopharmaceuticals Inc., Pfizer Inc., and Tetra Bio-Pharma, among many others. Top players in the market are engaging in clinical trials to evaluate the safety and efficacy of new drugs. Companies are investing heavily in research and development (R&D) efforts to create innovative treatments targeting the complex mechanisms of cancer cachexia. For instance, on 16 September 2024, Pfizer Inc., announced that its cancer cachexia candidate has provided patients with clinically meaningful weight gain in a Phase II trial, with the company sharing aims to start a pivotal programme in 2025.

Global Cancer Cachexia Market Segmentation Coverage

• On the basis of the therapeutics, the market has been categorized into progestogens, corticosteroids, combination therapy, and others, wherein progestogens represent the leading segment. They work by stimulating appetite and promoting weight gain, making them effective in managing anorexia and cachexia in cancer patients. They offer proven efficacy in improving appetite and caloric intake. They have a favorable safety profile as compared to other treatments. They are prescribed extensively by oncologists as a first-line treatment for cancer cachexia.
• Based on the mode of action, the market is bifurcated into appetite stimulators and weight loss stabilizers, amongst which weight loss stabilizers dominate the market. They assist in focusing on preventing further muscle and fat loss, addressing the root cause of cachexia. They aim to maintain or restore lean body mass, reduce inflammation, and manage metabolic disruptions associated with cancer cachexia. They often work by modulating key pathways involved in muscle protein breakdown and fat depletion.
• On the basis of the distribution channel, the market has been divided into hospital stores, retail pharmacy, and online pharmacy. Hospital stores serve inpatients and outpatients requiring specialized medical treatments. These stores have a strong focus on prescription-based therapies, which are administered under medical supervision. Retail pharmacies play an essential role in distributing cancer cachexia treatments to outpatients and those requiring maintenance therapy after hospital discharge. These offer over the counter (OTC) products and prescription medications. Furthermore, online pharmacy provides convenient access to cancer cachexia medications and nutritional products through digital platforms. They serve individuals who prefer home delivery options.