The pediatric imaging market size was exhibited at USD 9.85 billion in 2024 and is projected to hit around USD 20.30 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 7.5% during the forecast period 2024 to 2034.
The Pediatric Imaging Market is a critical and evolving sector within medical diagnostics, focused on the visualization, diagnosis, and monitoring of diseases and conditions among infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatric imaging requires specialized techniques, equipment, and expertise to cater to the unique anatomical and physiological characteristics of young patients. The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases in children, rising demand for early and accurate diagnosis, and advancements in imaging technologies are driving growth in this market.
Unlike adult imaging, pediatric imaging emphasizes minimizing radiation exposure, using sedation safely, and ensuring psychological comfort during procedures. Innovations in modalities such as ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and X-ray have greatly enhanced diagnostic accuracy while prioritizing patient safety. The rise in pediatric-specific conditions, including congenital abnormalities, pediatric cancers, neurological disorders, and orthopedic issues, has intensified the need for advanced imaging solutions tailored to younger patients.
Additionally, the global healthcare focus on early detection and intervention has amplified investments in pediatric radiology. Hospitals, specialized pediatric centers, and diagnostic imaging companies are adopting newer technologies like low-dose CT scanners, motion-correction MRI software, and pediatric-specific ultrasound systems to deliver more accurate and safer imaging. As medical research and technology converge, the pediatric imaging market is poised for significant expansion globally.
Emphasis on Low-dose Radiation Techniques: Strong demand for imaging methods that minimize radiation exposure in children, such as low-dose CT protocols and advanced shielding technologies.
Technological Advancements in MRI and Ultrasound: Development of faster, quieter, and motion-tolerant MRI sequences and high-resolution pediatric ultrasound devices.
Growth in Pediatric-specific Imaging Centers: Emergence of specialized diagnostic centers focusing solely on pediatric populations.
Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI-assisted imaging for pediatric disease detection, faster image analysis, and improved workflow efficiency.
Expansion of Portable and Point-of-care Imaging Devices: Rise of handheld ultrasound and mobile X-ray systems in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and emergency departments.
Increased Use of Sedation-free Imaging Protocols: Non-sedated imaging techniques for neonates and young children to avoid sedation-related risks.
Personalized Imaging Protocols: Tailored imaging settings and techniques based on the child's size, age, and medical condition.
Rising Prevalence of Pediatric Oncology Cases: Growing need for imaging in diagnosing and monitoring cancers in children.
Remote and Teleradiology Services: Increasing adoption of pediatric teleradiology to provide access to specialist interpretation in underserved areas.
Focus on Child-friendly Imaging Environments: Development of child-focused imaging rooms with audiovisual distractions to reduce anxiety.
| Report Coverage | Details |
| Market Size in 2025 | USD 10.59 Billion |
| Market Size by 2034 | USD 20.30 Billion |
| Growth Rate From 2024 to 2034 | CAGR of 7.5% |
| Base Year | 2024 |
| Forecast Period | 2024-2034 |
| Segments Covered | Modality, Application, End use, and Region |
| Market Analysis (Terms Used) | Value (US$ Million/Billion) or (Volume/Units) |
| Regional Covered | North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, MEA |
| Key Companies Profiled | GE Healthcare; Siemens Healthineers; Koninklijke Philips N.V.; FUJIFILM; Carestream Health; CANON MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORPORATION; Samsung Electronics; AGFA HealthCare (Agfa-Gevaert Group) |
One of the principal drivers fueling the pediatric imaging market is the increasing incidence of pediatric diseases requiring advanced diagnostic imaging. Conditions such as congenital heart defects, developmental abnormalities, pediatric cancers (like leukemia and brain tumors), orthopedic deformities, and neurological disorders are increasingly being diagnosed worldwide. According to the American Cancer Society, around 10,000 new cases of pediatric cancer are diagnosed annually in the United States alone.
Early and accurate diagnosis is critical for effective intervention in pediatric patients, making imaging technologies indispensable. For instance, ultrasound is commonly used to assess hip dysplasia in infants, while MRI is pivotal in evaluating pediatric brain tumors. Additionally, minimally invasive imaging technologies help reduce hospital stays and avoid complex surgical diagnostics. As clinical demand for prompt and accurate diagnostic services increases, the role of pediatric imaging continues to expand, boosting market growth significantly.
Despite technological progress, the high cost associated with pediatric imaging systems and procedures acts as a considerable market restraint. Advanced modalities like MRI and CT scanners specifically designed for pediatric use involve significant capital investments. The installation, maintenance, and specialized operator training further increase the overall cost burden on healthcare providers.
In many emerging economies, healthcare facilities struggle to afford or justify such high-end pediatric imaging equipment. Moreover, insurance reimbursement for pediatric imaging can sometimes be limited, making access to sophisticated diagnostics unevenly distributed. These financial barriers limit the widespread adoption of pediatric-focused imaging technologies, especially in rural and resource-limited settings, slowing market growth potential.
An exciting opportunity in the pediatric imaging market lies in the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms into imaging workflows. AI holds the potential to revolutionize pediatric diagnostics by automating anomaly detection, enhancing image quality, and enabling faster, more accurate interpretations even in complex cases.
Companies are developing AI tools that specifically cater to pediatric anatomy, assisting radiologists in detecting subtle abnormalities that could be easily missed. For instance, AI-assisted MRI sequences can shorten scan times, reducing the need for sedation in young children. Furthermore, AI can help tailor imaging parameters in real-time, improving safety by adjusting radiation doses dynamically based on patient size and anatomy. As AI technology matures and regulatory approvals increase, its integration into pediatric imaging is expected to greatly improve diagnostic capabilities while optimizing workflow efficiency.
Ultrasound dominated the pediatric imaging market in 2024. Ultrasound remains the first-line imaging modality for many pediatric conditions due to its safety, portability, cost-effectiveness, and lack of ionizing radiation. It is extensively used for abdominal, cranial, cardiac, and musculoskeletal assessments in neonates and young children. Portable and point-of-care ultrasound devices have made it easier to perform bedside evaluations in NICUs and emergency settings. Additionally, innovations like high-frequency probes and elastography are expanding ultrasound's diagnostic capabilities across various pediatric subspecialties.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is expected to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period. MRI offers superior soft-tissue contrast without ionizing radiation, making it ideal for neurological, orthopedic, and oncological imaging in children. Advances such as faster MRI sequences, motion-correction technology, and sedation-free protocols are enhancing pediatric MRI accessibility. The increasing diagnosis of brain tumors, congenital anomalies, and orthopedic conditions is driving demand for MRI. The modality's growing clinical acceptance as a safe and detailed diagnostic tool is propelling its adoption in pediatric imaging facilities worldwide.
Neurology emerged as the leading application segment in the pediatric imaging market. Pediatric neurology heavily relies on imaging modalities like MRI and CT for diagnosing conditions such as epilepsy, congenital malformations, hydrocephalus, and brain tumors. Neurological disorders often present subtle signs in young children, necessitating high-resolution and accurate imaging for effective diagnosis and treatment planning. Technological advancements in brain imaging, including diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and functional MRI (fMRI), have further cemented neurology's dominant position.
Oncology is poised to be the fastest-growing application segment. Pediatric cancers, including leukemia, neuroblastoma, and brain tumors, demand frequent and precise imaging for staging, treatment monitoring, and follow-up. PET-CT, MRI, and high-resolution ultrasound play crucial roles in detecting tumor spread and assessing therapeutic responses. Increasing survival rates due to better diagnostics and targeted therapies are driving the need for longitudinal imaging, thus fueling the rapid growth of oncology applications in pediatric imaging.
Hospitals captured the largest share of the pediatric imaging market in 2024. Hospitals, especially children's hospitals and tertiary care centers, are equipped with comprehensive imaging facilities and multidisciplinary pediatric care teams. The availability of multiple imaging modalities under one roof, coupled with specialized pediatric radiologists, positions hospitals as the primary hub for complex imaging cases. Moreover, emergency departments in hospitals frequently require imaging for trauma, infections, and acute illnesses in children.
Diagnostic Centers are projected to grow at the fastest pace over the forecast period. Standalone diagnostic centers are increasingly investing in pediatric-specific imaging equipment to tap into the growing outpatient diagnostic demand. These centers often offer faster service, lower costs, and child-friendly environments compared to large hospitals. With rising patient preference for outpatient imaging and preventive health checkups, diagnostic centers are expanding their pediatric imaging services, driving segment growth.
North America remains the dominant region in the pediatric imaging market, with the United States leading the charge. The region boasts advanced healthcare infrastructure, early adoption of cutting-edge technologies, and a strong emphasis on pediatric healthcare. Government initiatives like the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and significant investments in children's hospitals contribute to a thriving pediatric diagnostic ecosystem. Moreover, high awareness about early diagnosis, robust reimbursement policies, and the presence of leading market players such as GE Healthcare, Siemens Healthineers, and Philips Healthcare further reinforce North America’s leadership.
Asia Pacific is anticipated to register the fastest growth in the pediatric imaging market. The region’s booming birth rates, rising prevalence of congenital and infectious diseases, improving healthcare infrastructure, and growing middle-class population are key drivers. Countries like China, India, Japan, and Australia are witnessing increased investments in pediatric healthcare services. Government-led health initiatives promoting early disease detection and rising medical tourism for affordable pediatric imaging are boosting market expansion. Furthermore, regional players are collaborating with global technology leaders to introduce cost-effective, portable imaging devices suitable for diverse healthcare settings.
February 2025 – Siemens Healthineers launched a new pediatric MRI platform designed for faster scanning with reduced noise levels, enhancing comfort for young patients.
December 2024 – GE Healthcare introduced a portable, pediatric-specific ultrasound device aimed at emergency and critical care applications in hospitals.
October 2024 – Philips Healthcare announced the expansion of its low-dose pediatric CT scanner series, focusing on radiation reduction technology while maintaining high image quality.
August 2024 – Canon Medical Systems Corporation partnered with a major children's hospital in the U.S. to pilot AI-driven pediatric imaging solutions for improved diagnostic accuracy.
May 2024 – Mindray Medical International launched a new line of pediatric ultrasound systems in Asia, emphasizing affordability and high portability for rural healthcare access.
This report forecasts revenue growth at country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2021 to 2034. For this study, Nova one advisor, Inc. has segmented the pediatric imaging market
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