As the population ages and requires more long-term care, so to will the demand for treating decubitus ulcers, which will push the market for ulcer treatment products to $3.6 billion by 2010, according to The Decubitus Ulcer Treatment Products Market Report from market watchers at Global Industry Analysts Inc.

Decubitus ulcers result from tissue damage caused by patient bodyweight. Because of the incrase in homecare services targeted toward older patients, the market is continually trying to drive new innovations specifically for the homecare environment, according to the report.

Some other findings from the report:

• The United States has largest incidence of decubitus ulcers, making it the largest market for decubitus ulcer treatment products. U.S. sales of low air loss beds are projected to reach $309 million by 2009.
   
• Europe follows closely behind the United Sates as the second largest market for decubitus ulcer treatment products.
• Alternating air pressure mattresses market in Europe represents the largest segment, estimated at $248 million for 2008.  France, Germany, Italy, United Kingdom collectively account for more than 70 percent share of the European market.
• Asia-Pacific represents one of the fastest growing markets for decubitus ulcer treatment products. The market is projected to grow at a compounded annual rate of 6 percent over the period 2000-2010.
• The foam mattress market in Japan is estimated at $31 million for 2008. Growth in the segment is likely to be driven by increased usage of foam mattresses as an inexpensive treatment product.