PET Scanners Market Size (2025-2033)

The Global PET Scanners Market was valued at USD 1.4 billion in 2024 and will grow at a CAGR of 7.1% from 2025 to 2033. The market is expected to reach USD 2.10 billion by 2033.

The PET Scanners Market focuses on Positron Emission Tomography (PET), an advanced nuclear imaging technology used for detecting diseases like cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and neurological conditions. This market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, advancements in diagnostic imaging, and growing awareness regarding early detection. PET scanners provide detailed insights into metabolic activity and physiological processes, making them crucial in modern medical diagnostics. The integration of PET with CT and MRI technologies further enhances imaging capabilities and diagnostic accuracy. This market is expected to witness steady growth, driven by technological innovations, rising investments in healthcare infrastructure, and increased demand for precision diagnostics across developed and emerging economies.

Key Market Insights:

• The global demand for hybrid PET/CT scanners has surged, accounting for over 60% of total PET scanner sales in 2024 due to enhanced diagnostic accuracy and multi-modal imaging capabilities.
• Hospitals dominate end-user adoption, holding a 55% market share in 2024, owing to widespread application in oncology, neurology, and cardiology.
• North America remains the leading regional market, contributing to 38% of global revenue in 2024 due to robust healthcare systems and early adoption of innovative diagnostic tools.
• Oncology applications account for the largest application segment, with PET scanners used in over 75% of cancer diagnostics involving metabolic activity mapping.
• Technological advancements like time-of-flight (TOF) PET and digital PET detectors are reducing scan times by up to 40% while increasing image resolution.
• The Asia-Pacific region is projected to witness the fastest CAGR of 8.4% from 2025 to 2033 due to rising healthcare expenditure and increasing awareness of early disease diagnosis.
• Refurbished PET scanners are gaining traction, especially in price-sensitive markets, contributing to 15% of total units sold in developing countries in 2024.
• Public-private collaborations and government funding for advanced imaging infrastructure have increased by 12% annually in the past three years, fueling market expansion.

Global PET Scanners Market Drivers

Rising prevalence of chronic and age-related diseases is driving the market growth
The increasing global burden of chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and neurological conditions is significantly driving the PET scanners market. As populations age, particularly in developed regions like North America and Europe, there is a rising need for early diagnosis and effective monitoring of these conditions. PET scanners are widely recognized for their ability to provide high-resolution, real-time images of metabolic processes, which are essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Cancer detection, in particular, benefits greatly from PET imaging as it enables oncologists to differentiate between benign and malignant tumors with high precision. Furthermore, with over 19 million new cancer cases diagnosed globally in 2024, the demand for PET imaging as a front-line diagnostic tool continues to grow. Cardiovascular diseases, which remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide, also rely heavily on PET imaging for perfusion studies and plaque characterization. Additionally, PET scanners are instrumental in diagnosing neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, where they help in mapping amyloid plaques and assessing cognitive decline. The growing need for non-invasive, accurate, and timely diagnostics in aging populations is thus a fundamental driver of the PET scanners market.

Technological integration and multimodal imaging advancements is driving the market growth
Technological innovations in PET scanning, including the integration of PET with other imaging modalities such as CT and MRI, are revolutionizing diagnostic capabilities. The emergence of PET/CT and PET/MRI systems provides a comprehensive view of anatomical and functional changes within the body, improving diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning. These hybrid imaging systems reduce the need for multiple scans, decrease patient exposure to radiation, and streamline clinical workflows. Moreover, the adoption of time-of-flight (TOF) technology has further improved image resolution and reduced noise, allowing for more precise localization of abnormal tissue activity. Digital PET detectors are replacing analog systems, enabling shorter scan durations, enhanced patient comfort, and greater throughput in busy diagnostic centers. In 2024, digital PET scanners represented approximately 30% of newly installed systems globally, and this figure is expected to increase due to rapid advancements and falling technology costs. These innovations are not only enhancing diagnostic outcomes but are also enabling new clinical applications, such as quantitative imaging and theranostics. The integration of artificial intelligence into PET workflows is also gaining ground, providing automated interpretation and decision support. These trends collectively drive the adoption and growth of the PET scanners market across regions.

Increasing healthcare expenditure and infrastructure development is driving the market growth
Governments and private sectors are significantly increasing their investments in healthcare infrastructure, particularly in diagnostic imaging technologies like PET scanners. The demand for advanced imaging is growing rapidly in emerging economies, where rising incomes, urbanization, and increased health awareness are prompting a shift toward early and accurate diagnosis. Countries in Asia-Pacific, such as China and India, are witnessing unprecedented growth in medical infrastructure, including installation of advanced PET scanning systems in both public and private hospitals. This development is being supported by favorable government policies and funding initiatives aimed at improving access to high-quality healthcare services. In addition, several countries are partnering with international health organizations and private companies to build centers of excellence equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment. Health insurance coverage is also expanding in many regions, making PET scans more accessible to a larger segment of the population. In developed countries, hospitals and diagnostic centers are upgrading to the latest PET technologies to maintain competitive advantage and meet growing patient demand. These developments contribute to a favorable environment for PET scanner adoption and expansion, making healthcare investment a strong driving factor for market growth.

Global PET Scanners Market Challenges and Restraints

High cost of equipment and installation is restricting the market growth
The substantial cost of PET scanners and their associated installation and operational expenses remains a significant barrier to market expansion, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. A typical PET scanner can range in cost from USD 1.5 million to over USD 3 million, depending on the model and features, with installation and maintenance adding significant additional expenses. The cost of facility modifications, radiation shielding, and trained personnel further escalates the financial burden on healthcare providers. Smaller hospitals and diagnostic clinics often find it challenging to justify such a capital-intensive investment, limiting market penetration in underserved regions. Moreover, advanced hybrid models like PET/MRI scanners are even more expensive, reducing accessibility. Operational costs, including radiotracer production, storage, and compliance with strict regulatory requirements, also weigh heavily on budget-constrained healthcare systems. In some regions, lack of reimbursement policies for PET scans further discourages adoption. While refurbished equipment offers a cost-effective alternative, it may not support the latest technologies, limiting diagnostic capabilities. These financial constraints significantly impede the adoption of PET scanning technologies, especially where healthcare spending is limited, and affordability remains a critical concern.

Limited availability of skilled professionals and radiotracers is restricting the market growth
Another key challenge in the PET scanners market is the shortage of trained healthcare professionals capable of operating and interpreting PET imaging systems effectively. These include nuclear medicine physicians, radiologists, medical physicists, and technologists who require specialized training to manage the complex functionality of PET equipment. In many developing countries, the lack of educational programs and certification standards for nuclear imaging professionals has created a skills gap, limiting the optimal use of advanced PET technologies. Additionally, the production and distribution of radiotracers—essential for PET scans—pose logistical and regulatory challenges. Radiotracers like FDG (fluorodeoxyglucose) have a very short half-life and must be produced close to the imaging site, necessitating a reliable cyclotron network and cold chain logistics. In regions lacking this infrastructure, PET scanning becomes infeasible or significantly delayed, compromising its clinical utility. Regulatory approval processes for new tracers are also lengthy and complex, further restricting access. The combination of workforce shortages and supply chain limitations for radiopharmaceuticals impairs market growth and limits the availability of PET imaging to patients, especially in rural and underserved areas.

Market Opportunities
The PET scanners market is poised for expansion through several emerging opportunities that promise to reshape the future of diagnostic imaging. One of the most promising avenues lies in the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies with PET systems. These advancements can automate image analysis, improve diagnostic accuracy, and significantly reduce interpretation time, thereby enhancing clinical efficiency and patient outcomes. Another major opportunity is the expanding scope of theranostics, where PET imaging is used not only for diagnosis but also to guide and monitor targeted therapies. This dual approach is gaining traction in oncology, particularly in the treatment of prostate and neuroendocrine tumors. Furthermore, the development of novel radiotracers designed to target specific biomarkers is opening new clinical applications beyond traditional oncology, including in neurology and cardiology. Emerging markets offer additional potential, with growing healthcare budgets, increasing government support, and rising awareness about early diagnosis driving demand for advanced diagnostic equipment. Mobile PET scanning units and more affordable compact systems are also being developed to cater to smaller healthcare facilities, enhancing access in remote or rural areas. Public-private partnerships and academic collaborations are accelerating research into new scanning protocols, radiotracers, and imaging biomarkers, further broadening the utility of PET technology. With an increasing emphasis on personalized medicine and the need for precision diagnostics, PET scanners are likely to play a critical role in future healthcare delivery models. Together, these trends and innovations present a substantial growth opportunity for both established and emerging players in the PET scanners market.

PET SCANNERS MARKET REPORT COVERAGE:

PET Scanners Market Segmentation

PET Scanners Market Segmentation By Type:

• Full-ring PET scanners
• Partial-ring PET scanners
• Hybrid PET/CT scanners
• Hybrid PET/MRI scanners
• Digital PET scanners
• Refurbished PET scanners

Hybrid PET/CT scanners are the most dominant product segment in the global PET scanners market. Their ability to combine anatomical and functional imaging into a single scan has revolutionized diagnostic workflows in oncology, cardiology, and neurology. In 2024, PET/CT systems accounted for over 60% of all installations globally due to their high diagnostic accuracy, faster scan times, and widespread clinical acceptance. These systems enhance patient throughput and reduce total imaging costs, making them the preferred choice for hospitals and large diagnostic centers. Continued advancements in CT resolution, radiation dose reduction, and software integration are expected to sustain the leadership of PET/CT systems through 2033.

PET Scanners Market Segmentation By Application:

• Oncology
• Cardiology
• Neurology
• Inflammatory and infectious diseases
• Research and development

Oncology remains the leading application segment for PET scanners, accounting for more than 75% of global procedures in 2024. PET imaging is widely used in cancer diagnosis, staging, therapy planning, and treatment response monitoring. It offers critical insights into tumor metabolism and spread, aiding oncologists in developing personalized treatment plans. With cancer incidence on the rise, especially in aging populations, demand for accurate, non-invasive diagnostic tools like PET scanners is increasing. Advanced radiotracers have also expanded the use of PET in detecting a wider range of malignancies, further strengthening its role in cancer care. As clinical guidelines increasingly recommend PET scans for major cancers, oncology will continue to dominate PET scanner utilization.

PET Scanners Market Regional Segmentation

• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• South America
• Middle East and Africa

North America is the most dominant region in the global PET scanners market, contributing approximately 38% of total revenue in 2024. The region's leadership stems from its well-established healthcare infrastructure, early adoption of advanced imaging technologies, and high healthcare spending per capita. The United States, in particular, has a dense network of hospitals and diagnostic imaging centers equipped with state-of-the-art PET scanning systems. The availability of trained nuclear medicine professionals, favorable reimbursement policies, and strong research support further promote market growth. Government funding through programs like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) also fuels innovation and clinical adoption of cutting-edge PET technologies. In addition, leading manufacturers and research institutions are headquartered in this region, facilitating rapid commercialization of new products and radiotracers. The integration of PET into clinical practice for oncology, cardiology, and neurology is routine in North American healthcare, and patient awareness of early diagnosis is high. Furthermore, North America benefits from a strong regulatory framework that supports the timely approval and deployment of new imaging technologies. The rising prevalence of chronic diseases and cancer in the aging population is also driving demand for PET imaging. As digital PET and hybrid systems like PET/MRI gain traction, the region is likely to maintain its dominance due to continuous innovation, funding, and clinical adoption. However, challenges like high equipment costs and pressure to contain healthcare expenditures could influence future market dynamics.

Key Trends Shaping the PET Scanners Market

1. Rising Adoption of Digital PET Scanners
   • Enhanced image resolution for improved diagnostic accuracy.
   • Shorter scan times, boosting patient throughput and comfort.
   • Superior detection of small lesions, improving early diagnosis rates.
2. Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in PET Imaging
   • AI-powered platforms for automated anomaly detection.
   • Streamlined image acquisition, interpretation, and reporting.
   • Enhanced workflow efficiency and reduced human error.

3. Advancements in Radiotracer Innovation
   • Expansion of PET applications beyond oncology.
   • New radiotracers targeting neurodegenerative diseases, infections, and psychiatric disorders.
4. Growing Use of Hybrid PET Systems
   • PET/MRI systems offering superior soft-tissue contrast.
   • High functional imaging capabilities, particularly in academic and specialized clinical settings.
5. Development of Portable and Compact PET Units
   • Designed for use in rural, mobile, and underserved healthcare areas.
   • Improved accessibility in smaller diagnostic centers.
6. Market Growth in Emerging Economies
   • Increased government funding and private sector investments.
   • Expansion of healthcare infrastructure for PET imaging services.
7. Collaborations and Partnerships
   • Strong alliances between universities, hospitals, and PET scanner manufacturers.
   • Accelerated pace of clinical trials and technology validation.
8. Regulatory Support for New Radiopharmaceuticals
   • Streamlined approval processes for quicker market entry.
   • Encouraging innovation and broader PET adoption.
9. Focus on Sustainability and Cost-Efficiency
   • Increased demand for refurbished PET scanners.
   • Energy-efficient designs reducing operational costs.

Key Players:

1. GE Healthcare
2. Siemens Healthineers
3. Philips Healthcare
4. Canon Medical Systems
5. United Imaging Healthcare
6. Neusoft Medical Systems
7. Spectrum Dynamics
8. Positron Corporation
9. CMR Naviscan
10. Mediso Ltd.