Chronic Bronchitis Market

• The chronic bronchitis market is projected to grow steadily during the forecast period (2025–2034), driven by emerging therapies, advanced diagnostics, rising disease awareness, and an increasing number of reported cases, creating a promising and evolving market landscape.
• The rising cases of chronic bronchitis are mainly due to increased tobacco smoking, worsening air quality from urban and industrial pollution, and prolonged exposure to environmental and occupational irritants such as dust, chemical fumes, and toxic gases.
• Chronic bronchitis treatment relies on symptom management through bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, antibiotics, smoking cessation, pulmonary rehabilitation, and preventing complications with vaccines and infection control measures. 
• The current chronic bronchitis landscape is competitive, with multiple approved treatment options, including BREZTRI AEROSPHERE/ TRIXEO AEROSPHERE (budesonide, glycopyrrolate, and formoterol fumarate), TRELEGY ELLIPTA (fluticasone furoate, umeclidinium, and vilanterol), and SPIRIVA RESPIMAT (tiotropium bromide), among others.
• Despite available therapies, chronic bronchitis continues to present significant unmet needs—particularly in addressing persistent inflammation, frequent exacerbations, and progressive lung function decline. Current treatments often fail to target the underlying inflammatory pathways, especially in patients without eosinophilic involvement, limiting long-term disease control and quality of life improvements.
• The emerging pipeline for chronic bronchitis shows moderate competition, with agents such as tozorakimab (MEDI3506) and tanimilast (CHF6001) advancing through mid to late-stage development. These therapies aim to overcome resistance challenges and expand available treatment options within a complex clinical landscape.

Factors affecting Chronic Bronchitis Market Growth

• Rising Prevalence of Chronic Respiratory Diseases

Increasing cases of chronic bronchitis, often linked with COPD, smoking, and air pollution, are driving demand for effective treatment options.

• Advancements in Diagnostic Tools

Improved imaging techniques, pulmonary function tests, and biomarker-based diagnostics enable early detection and better disease management.

• Development of Novel Therapies

Introduction of advanced inhalers, bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and combination therapies is enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life.

• Growing Awareness Among Healthcare Professionals

Increased understanding of chronic bronchitis management among pulmonologists and primary care providers is contributing to better treatment adoption.

• Rising Air Pollution and Environmental Risk Factors

Exposure to pollutants, occupational hazards, and smoking significantly increases the incidence of chronic bronchitis, driving the market.

• Aging Global Population

Elderly populations are more susceptible to chronic respiratory diseases, increasing demand for therapeutic interventions.

• Expansion of Healthcare Infrastructure

Improved access to hospitals, respiratory care centers, and outpatient clinics supports the growing adoption of chronic bronchitis treatments.

DelveInsight’s comprehensive report titled “Chronic Bronchitis — Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast – 2034” offers a detailed analysis of chronic bronchitis. The report presents historical and projected epidemiological data covering total prevalent cases of chronic bronchitis, total diagnosed prevalent cases of chronic bronchitis, gender-specific cases of chronic bronchitis, age-specific cases of chronic bronchitis, and treated cases of chronic bronchitis. In addition to epidemiology, the market report encompasses various aspects related to the patient population. These aspects include the diagnosis process, prescription patterns, physician perspectives, market accessibility, treatment options, and prospective developments in the market across seven major markets: the United States, EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), the United Kingdom, and Japan, spanning from 2020 to 2034.

The report analyzes the existing treatment practices and unmet medical requirements in chronic bronchitis. It evaluates the market potential and identifies potential business prospects for enhancing therapies or interventions. This valuable information enables stakeholders to make well-informed decisions regarding product development and strategic planning for the market.

Chronic Bronchitis Overview

Chronic bronchitis is a long-lasting inflammation of the airways in the lungs — including the trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles — that leads to persistent symptoms like coughing and shortness of breath. It’s typically diagnosed when these symptoms occur most days of the month for at least three months a year, over two consecutive years. Chronic bronchitis is a key clinical subtype of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), characterized by persistent inflammation and mucus production in the airways.

Chronic bronchitis may begin with no or mild symptoms, but as it progresses, signs become more pronounced. Common symptoms include a persistent cough with thick mucus, wheezing, shortness of breath during activity, and chest tightness. Many patients also experience frequent respiratory infections like colds or the flu. In advanced cases, it can lead to weight loss, lower limb muscle weakness, and swelling in the ankles or legs, indicating worsening lung function and systemic strain.

Chronic Bronchitis Diagnosis and Treatment Algorithm 

Chronic bronchitis is diagnosed through a systematic clinical assessment, incorporating patient anamnesis, symptomatology, and cardiopulmonary auscultation. Diagnostic workup includes spirometric evaluation of ventilatory capacity, thoracic imaging (radiography or computed tomography) to assess parenchymal or airway abnormalities, hematological investigations including arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis to determine PaO₂ and PaCO₂ levels, and electrocardiography to detect potential cardiovascular comorbidities. These investigations support disease characterization, exclude differential diagnoses, and inform therapeutic strategies.

Chronic bronchitis has no cure, but treatment can ease symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve quality of life. The most crucial step is quitting smoking and avoiding exposure to lung irritants. A balanced diet and regular physical activity, guided by a healthcare provider, can strengthen breathing muscles and support overall health.

Treatment includes bronchodilators to open airways, sometimes combined with inhaled steroids for inflammation. Vaccinations against flu and pneumonia are important to prevent complications, and antibiotics may be needed during infections. In advanced cases, oxygen therapy can help with breathing, while pulmonary rehabilitation offers support through exercise, education, and counseling. A lung transplant may be considered in severe, treatment-resistant cases.

Chronic Bronchitis Epidemiology

The epidemiology section of the chronic bronchitis market report offers information on the patient populations, including historical and projected trends for each of the seven major markets. Examining key opinion leader views from physicians or clinical experts can assist in identifying the reasons behind historical and projected trends. The diagnosed patient pool, their trends, and the underlying assumptions are all included in this section of the report.

This section also presents the data with relevant tables and graphs, offering a clear and concise view of the prevalence of chronic bronchitis. Additionally, the report discloses the assumptions made during the analysis, ensuring data interpretation and presentation transparency. This epidemiological data is valuable for understanding the disease burden and its impact on the patient population across various regions.

Key Findings from Chronic Bronchitis Epidemiological Analyses and Forecast

In the US, chronic bronchitis impacts a considerable segment of the population. The condition is more commonly reported with increasing age, affecting 2.2% of individuals aged 18–44, 4.5% of those aged 45–64, and 5.3% among those 65 and older.

In the US, the prevalence of chronic bronchitis increases with age and is notably higher in females than males, with reported rates of 56.8 and 29.6 cases per 1,000 individuals, respectively.

In Italy, the prevalence of chronic bronchitis among young adults aged 20 to 44 reached 12.3% in 2010, reflecting a clear upward trend in the condition over the study period.

The epidemiology of chronic bronchitis is expected to change during the forecast period (2025–2034).

Chronic Bronchitis Market Outlook

The chronic bronchitis therapeutics market is further expected to increase by the major drivers, such as the rising prevalent population, technological advancements, and upcoming therapies in the forecast period (2025–2034).

With ongoing research and continued dedication, the future holds hope for even more effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure for this challenging condition. According to DelveInsight, the chronic bronchitis market in the 7MM is expected to change significantly during the study period 2020–2034.

Chronic Bronchitis Drug Chapters 

Marketed Chronic bronchitis Drugs

• BREZTRI AEROSPHERE/ TRIXEO AEROSPHERE (budesonide, glycopyrrolate, and formoterol fumarate): AstraZeneca

BREZTRI AEROSPHERE, developed by AstraZeneca, is a prescription medication used for the long-term maintenance treatment of chronic COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It combines three active ingredients: budesonide (ICS), glycopyrrolate (LAMA), and formoterol fumarate (LABA), working together to reduce inflammation, relax airway muscles, and improve breathing.

In July 2020, the US FDA approved BREZTRI Aerosphere as a once‑daily, single‑inhaler triple therapy for the maintenance treatment of COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

In December 2020, TRIXEO Aerosphere was granted European Commission approval as a maintenance therapy for adult patients with moderate‑to‑severe chronic bronchitis/emphysema who remained symptomatic despite dual ICS/LABA or LABA/LAMA treatment.

In June 2019, BREZTRI Aerosphere received approval in Japan for the treatment of COPD, including chronic bronchitis.

• TRELEGY ELLIPTA (fluticasone furoate, umeclidinium, and vilanterol): GSK

TRELEGY ELLIPTA is a once-daily prescription medication indicated for the long-term maintenance treatment of COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It combines fluticasone furoate (ICS), umeclidinium (LAMA), and vilanterol (LABA) to reduce airway inflammation, promote bronchodilation, and enhance lung function—improving breathing and symptom management.

In September 2017, the US FDA approved TRELEGY ELLIPTA as the first once-daily single-inhaler triple therapy for COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

In November 2017, TRELEGY ELLIPTA was approved in the European Union for the treatment of patients with COPD.

In March 2019 TRELEGY ELLIPTA was approved in Japan for the treatment of COPD, including chronic bronchitis.

• SPIRIVA RESPIMAT (tiotropium bromide): Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals

SPIRIVA RESPIMAT developed by Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals is a once-daily, long-term maintenance inhaler designed to relieve bronchospasm and improve breathing in individuals with COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

In September 2014, the US FDA has approved SPIRIVA RESPIMAT inhalation spray for the long-term, once-daily maintenance treatment of bronchospasm linked to COPD, including chronic bronchitis.

In July 2007, SPIRIVA RESPIMAT received EMA approval for the treatment of COPD, including chronic bronchitis.

In July 2004, SPIRIVA RESPIMAT was approved in Japan for the treatment of COPD, including chronic bronchitis.

Note: Detailed marketed therapies assessment will be provided in the final report.

Emerging Chronic Bronchitis Drugs

The chronic bronchitis market is expected to experience gradual changes, mainly due to the limited availability of emerging therapies in this area. Key market players, including Chiesi Farmaceutici, and AstraZeneca, among others, have demonstrated a keen interest in this condition and are actively pursuing the development of potential treatments.

• Tanimilast (CHF6001): Chiesi Farmaceutici S.p.A.

Tanimilast (CHF6001), an investigational inhaled phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor developed by Chiesi, is currently in Phase III clinical trials for the treatment of COPD, specifically in patients with chronic bronchitis.

Chiesi’s Phase III PILASTER study evaluated two doses of CHF6001 DPI as an add-on to triple therapy in adults aged 40 and above with COPD and chronic bronchitis. 

• Tozorakimab (MEDI3506): AstraZeneca

Tozorakimab, developed by AstraZeneca’s is investigational IL-33 monoclonal antibody, targets both reduced and oxidized forms of IL-33, aiming to more effectively suppress airway inflammation. By addressing a key upstream driver of chronic respiratory disease, it offers potential for broader and more durable symptom control. Phase II data from the FRONTIER trials demonstrated a favorable safety profile and early efficacy signals in patients with COPD and chronic bronchitis features. 

In May 2025, AstraZeneca presented new data on tozorakimab at the ATS International Conference. The pooled safety results from the FOUR FRONTIER Phase II trials demonstrated a favorable and well-tolerated profile across all indications, strengthening tozorakimab’s potential role in treating COPD with chronic bronchitis.

Note: Detailed emerging therapies assessment will be provided in the final report.

Chronic Bronchitis Market Segmentation

DelveInsight’s ‘Chronic Bronchitis – Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast – 2034’ report provides a detailed outlook of the current and future chronic bronchitis market, segmented within countries, by therapies, and by classes. Further, the market of each region is then segmented by each therapy to provide a detailed view of the current and future market share of all therapies. 

Chronic Bronchitis Market Size by Countries

The chronic bronchitis market size is assessed separately for various countries, including the United States, EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), the UK, and Japan. In 2024, the United States held a significant share of the overall 7MM (Seven Major Markets) chronic bronchitis market, primarily attributed to the country’s higher prevalence of the condition and the elevated cost of the available treatments. This dominance is projected to persist, especially with the potential early introduction of new products.

Chronic Bronchitis Market Size by Therapies

Chronic bronchitis Market Size by Therapies is categorized into current and emerging markets for the study period 2020–2034. 

Note: Detailed market segment assessment will be provided in the final report.

Chronic Bronchitis Drugs Uptake

This section focuses on the sales uptake of potential chronic bronchitis drugs that have recently been launched or are anticipated to be launched in the chronic bronchitis market between 2020 and 2034. It estimates the market penetration of chronic bronchitis drugs for a given country, examining their impact within and across classes and segments. It also touches upon the financial and regulatory decisions contributing to the probability of success (PoS) of the drugs in the chronic bronchitis market.

The emerging chronic bronchitis therapies are analyzed based on various attributes such as safety and efficacy in randomized clinical trials, order of entry and other market dynamics, and the unmet need they fulfill in the chronic bronchitis market.

Note: Detailed assessment of drug uptake and attribute analysis will be provided in the full report on chronic bronchitis.

Chronic Bronchitis Market Access and Reimbursement

DelveInsight’s ‘Chronic Bronchitis – Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast – 2034’ report provides a descriptive overview of the market access and reimbursement scenario of chronic bronchitis.

This section includes a detailed analysis of the country-wise healthcare system for each therapy, enlightening the market access, reimbursement policies, and health technology assessments. 

Latest KOL Views on Chronic Bronchitis Market

To keep up with current chronic bronchitis market trends and fill gaps in secondary findings, we interview KOLs and SMEs’ working in the chronic bronchitis domain. Their opinion helps understand and validate current and emerging therapies and treatment patterns or chronic bronchitis market trends. This will support the clients in potential upcoming novel treatments by identifying the overall scenario of the market and the chronic bronchitis unmet needs.

Chronic bronchitis: KOL Insights

DelveInsight’s analysts connected with 30+ KOLs to gather insights; however, interviews were conducted with 15+ KOLs in the 7MM. These KOLs were from organizations, institutes, and hospitals, such as the Temple Lung Center, US; American Lung Association Research Institute, US; Center for Lung Research, Germany; UPMC Salvator Mundi International Hospital, Italy; Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Spain; Hokkaido Medical Research Institute for Respiratory Diseases, Japan, and others.

“Chronic bronchitis is often overlooked as a distinct phenotype, despite its strong association with frequent exacerbations and accelerated lung decline. There is a need for biomarker-driven approaches, and emerging therapies targeting mucus hypersecretion and neutrophilic inflammation could shift the treatment paradigm.”

“The primary cause of chronic bronchitis is long-term exposure to irritants that damage the lungs and airways, with cigarette smoking being the leading risk factor. Other contributors include air pollution, occupational exposure to dust and fumes, and certain lung diseases. Although it primarily affects middle-aged and older adults, symptoms can develop earlier depending on exposure history.”

“Chronic bronchitis, a COPD phenotype, involves persistent mucus hypersecretion, neutrophilic inflammation, and impaired mucociliary clearance, leading to frequent exacerbations and faster lung decline. Elevated MUC5AC and cytokine activity highlight it as a distinct inflammatory endotype. Emerging therapies like tozorakimab and tanimilast target these pathways, shifting focus toward disease modification.”

Note: Detailed assessment of KOL Views will be provided in the full report on chronic bronchitis.

Competitive Intelligence Analysis

We conduct a Competitive and Market Intelligence analysis of the chronic bronchitis Market, utilizing various Competitive Intelligence tools such as SWOT analysis and Market entry strategies. The inclusion of these analyses is contingent upon data availability, ensuring a comprehensive and well-informed assessment of the market landscape and competitive dynamics.

Chronic Bronchitis Pipeline Development Activities

The report offers an analysis of therapeutic candidates in Phase I, Phase II and Phase III stages and examines companies involved in developing targeted therapeutics for chronic bronchitis. It provides valuable insights into the advancements and progress of potential treatments in clinical development for this condition.

Pipeline Development Activities

The report covers information on collaborations, acquisition and merger, licensing, patent details, and other information for emerging chronic bronchitis therapies.

Chronic Bronchitis Report Insights

• Chronic Bronchitis Patient Population
• Therapeutic Approaches
• Chronic Bronchitis Pipeline Analysis
• Chronic Bronchitis Market Size and Trends
• Chronic Bronchitis Market Opportunities
• Impact of Upcoming Therapies

Chronic Bronchitis Report Key Strengths

• 10 Years Forecast
• The 7MM Coverage
• Chronic Bronchitis Epidemiology Segmentation
• Key Cross Competition
• Highly Analyzed Chronic Bronchitis Market
• Chronic Bronchitis Drugs Uptake

Chronic Bronchitis Report Assessment

• Chronic Bronchitis Current Treatment Practices
• Unmet Needs
• Chronic Bronchitis Pipeline Product Profiles
• Chronic Bronchitis Market Attractiveness

Key Questions Answered in the Chronic Bronchitis Report

• How common is chronic bronchitis?
• What are the key findings of chronic bronchitis epidemiology across the 7MM, and which country will have the highest number of patients during the study period (2020–2034)?
• What are the currently available treatments for chronic bronchitis?
• What are the disease risk, burden, and unmet needs of chronic bronchitis?
• At what CAGR is the chronic bronchitis market and its epidemiology is expected to grow in the 7MM during the forecast period (2025–2034)?
• How would the unmet needs impact the chronic bronchitis market dynamics and subsequently influence the analysis of the related trends?
• What would be the forecasted patient pool of chronic bronchitis in the 7MM covering the United States, EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), the UK, and Japan?
• Among EU4 and the UK, which country will have the highest number of patients during the forecast period (2025–2034)?
• How many companies are currently developing therapies for the treatment of chronic bronchitis?

Reasons to Buy the Chronic Bronchitis Report

• The report will help in developing business strategies by understanding the latest trends and changing treatment dynamics driving the chronic bronchitis market.
• Insights on patient burden/disease prevalence, evolution in diagnosis, and factors contributing to the change in the epidemiology of the disease during the forecast years
• To understand the existing market opportunity in varying geographies and the growth potential over the coming years.
• Distribution of historical and current patient share based on real-world prescription data along with reported sales of current treatment in the US, EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), the United Kingdom, and Japan.
• Identification of strong upcoming players in the market will help in devising strategies that will help in getting ahead of competitors.
• Detailed analysis and ranking of class-wise potential current and emerging therapies under the conjoint analysis section to provide visibility around leading classes.
• Highlights of Access and Reimbursement policies of approved therapies, barriers to accessibility of off-label expensive therapies, and patient assistance programs.
• To understand the perspective of Key Opinion Leaders around the accessibility, acceptability, and compliance-related challenges of existing treatment to overcome barriers in the future.
• Detailed insights on the unmet needs of the existing market so that the upcoming players can strengthen their development and launch strategy.