Bilirubin Blood Test Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Test Type (Total Serum Bilirubin (TSB), Direct/Conjugated Bilirubin, Indirect/Unconjugated Bilirubin), By End-User (Hospitals, Diagnostic Laboratories, Ambulatory Surgical Centers, Others) and By Region(North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, LATAM) Forecasts, 2025-2033

Bilirubin Blood Test Market Size

The global bilirubin blood test market size was valued at USD 1.23 billion in 2024 And is projected to reach from USD 1.30 billion in 2025 to USD 2.09 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 6.05% during the forecast period (2025–2033). 

The global market is poised for significant growth, driven by several factors that are expected to shape its future landscape. As healthcare systems globally shift towards more preventive care, the demand for accurate diagnostic tools like bilirubin blood tests is anticipated to rise. Moreover, the increasing prevalence of liver diseases, including hepatitis and cirrhosis, alongside the rising incidence of neonatal jaundice, will likely contribute to sustained market demand.

A Bilirubin Blood Test measures the levels of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells, in the blood. This test helps evaluate liver function, as bilirubin is processed by the liver and excreted in bile. Elevated bilirubin levels can indicate liver diseases such as hepatitis and cirrhosis or conditions like gallstones or hemolytic anemia, where red blood cells break down too quickly.

The test is commonly ordered for newborns to check for jaundice, a condition where high bilirubin levels cause yellowing of the skin and eyes. In adults, it is used to diagnose and monitor liver disorders, bile duct issues, or hemolytic diseases. The results of this test provide crucial information about the liver's health and overall functioning.

Top 3 key highlights

• Total serum bilirubin (TSB) dominates the test-type segment
• Hospitals dominate the end-user segment
• North America is anticipated to be the largest market share holder

Bilirubin Blood Test Market Trends

Shift towards non-invasive tests

One significant trend in the bilirubin blood test market is the shift towards non-invasive testing methods. Traditional bilirubin testing typically involves blood sampling, which can be uncomfortable for patients, particularly newborns. However, technological advancements have led to the development of transcutaneous bilirubinometers, which allow for non-invasive, painless testing by measuring bilirubin levels through the skin.

This market trend is gaining traction due to its ease of use, quick results, and reduced risk of infection. For instance, the introduction of devices like the BiliChek™ has revolutionized newborn care by enabling rapid bilirubin screening in hospitals and clinics. As healthcare providers increasingly adopt these non-invasive devices, the market growth is expected to accelerate, catering to the rising demand for patient-friendly diagnostic solutions.

Bilirubin Blood Test Market Growth Factors

Increasing prevalence of liver diseases and neonatal jaundice

The growing incidence of liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and bile duct obstruction is a primary driver for the bilirubin blood test market. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), liver diseases account for approximately 2 million deaths annually worldwide, with a significant proportion attributed to cirrhosis and liver cancer. This rising burden of liver disorders necessitates regular monitoring of bilirubin levels, thereby driving market growth.

Additionally, neonatal jaundice, a condition that affects nearly 60% of full-term newborns and 80% of preterm infants, requires frequent bilirubin testing to prevent complications like kernicterus. Moreover, the increasing awareness among healthcare professionals and parents regarding the importance of early detection and management of hyperbilirubinemia is further propelling the market size of bilirubin blood tests.

Restraining Factors

High costs of advanced diagnostic equipment

Despite the advancements in bilirubin testing technology, the high costs associated with these devices pose a significant restraint on market growth. State-of-the-art equipment like transcutaneous bilirubin meters and POC analyzers are often expensive, making them less accessible to small clinics and healthcare facilities in developing regions.

• For example, the cost of a standard transcutaneous bilirubinometer can range from USD 3,000 to USD 5,000, which can be prohibitively expensive for healthcare providers operating on tight budgets. Moreover, the maintenance and calibration of these devices require skilled personnel, adding to the overall cost burden. This financial barrier may limit the adoption of advanced bilirubin testing solutions in resource-constrained settings, thereby hindering the expansion of the market size.

Market Opportunities

Rising demand in emerging economies

Emerging economies in Asia-Pacific and Latin America present lucrative opportunities for the bilirubin blood test market. The growing healthcare infrastructure, increasing government initiatives for newborn care, and rising awareness about liver diseases are key factors driving the demand for bilirubin testing in these regions. For instance, India and China, with their large neonatal populations, are witnessing significant investments in healthcare facilities, including neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).

Additionally, international organizations like UNICEF are actively promoting neonatal health programs, which include routine bilirubin screening. As these regions continue to develop, the demand for bilirubin blood tests is expected to surge, offering considerable market growth potential. Thus, companies investing in affordable and accessible testing solutions tailored to the needs of these emerging markets can capitalize on the expanding market size.

Regional Insights

North america dominates the global market

North America is the most significant global market shareholder and is expected to expand substantially over the forecast period. The North American bilirubin blood test market holds a prominent position globally, driven by advanced healthcare infrastructure, high awareness levels, and the prevalence of liver-related diseases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), liver disease is a major health concern in the U.S., affecting nearly 4.5 million adults.

Similarly, as per the Canadian Liver Foundation estimates, liver disease may impact one in four Canadians and cause 5,000 deaths annually in the country. This surging burden of liver diseases is estimated to foster the demand for bilirubin blood tests in this region. Moreover, the widespread adoption of cutting-edge diagnostic technologies, such as point-of-care testing devices, further accelerates the market growth in this region.

• In the United States, the bilirubin blood test market is experiencing robust growth due to several factors, including the increasing prevalence of liver diseases and the high incidence of neonatal jaundice. Approximately 3,000 babies in the U.S. suffer from severe jaundice annually, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. This high incidence rate drives the demand for frequent bilirubin testing in newborns.
• Moreover, the U.S. healthcare system's focus on early diagnosis and treatment of liver conditions contributes to the market's expansion. The country is also home to major market players like Abbott Laboratories and Thermo Fisher Scientific, which invest heavily in research and development to introduce advanced bilirubin testing solutions. These factors, combined with a well-established healthcare infrastructure, position the U.S. as the dominant player in the North American bilirubin blood test market.

Asia-pacific: fastest growing region with the highest cagr

The Asia-Pacific region is poised to witness significant growth. The region's market growth is driven by factors such as the rising birth rate, increasing prevalence of liver diseases, and expanding healthcare infrastructure. Countries like India, China, and Japan are leading the region, with a growing focus on improving neonatal care and early diagnosis of liver conditions. The Asia-Pacific market is also benefiting from increased government initiatives and international support aimed at enhancing maternal and child health. For instance, programs supported by organizations like UNICEF are promoting routine bilirubin screening to prevent complications like neonatal jaundice.

• China is emerging as a key player in the Asia-Pacific bilirubin blood test market, driven by its large neonatal population and increasing healthcare investments. In 2022, China's birth rate was approximately 10.41 births per 1,000 people, highlighting the need for robust neonatal care. The country's healthcare system has seen significant improvements, with the government prioritizing maternal and child health.
• Similarly, China's growing middle class is increasingly seeking high-quality healthcare services, including advanced diagnostic tests. The Chinese government's Healthy China 2030 initiative, which focuses on improving healthcare access and quality, is expected to further drive the demand for bilirubin blood tests, positioning China as a critical market in the region.

Bilirubin Blood Test Market Segmentation Analysis

By test type

The market is divided into total serum bilirubin (TSB), direct/conjugated bilirubin, and indirect/unconjugated bilirubin. The total serum bilirubin (TSB) segment is estimated to own the market over the forecast period. The total serum bilirubin (TSB) segment dominates the global market due to its widespread use in clinical settings to assess overall bilirubin levels in the blood. TSB is a crucial indicator in diagnosing and monitoring liver function, neonatal jaundice, and hemolytic disorders. Its comprehensive nature, encompassing both direct (conjugated) and indirect (unconjugated) bilirubin, makes it the preferred test among healthcare providers.

The segment's growth is driven by its essential role in routine liver function tests and neonatal screenings. Moreover, advancements in laboratory automation and point-of-care testing technologies have made TSB tests more accessible and efficient, further boosting the segment's prominence in the market.

By end-user

The market is segmented into hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, ambulatory surgical centers, and others. The hospital segment dominated the market during the forecast period. The hospital segment accounted for a substantial share due to the high volume of bilirubin tests performed in these settings. Hospitals are the primary care providers for neonatal jaundice, liver diseases, and other conditions requiring regular bilirubin monitoring. The availability of advanced diagnostic equipment, such as automated analyzers and point-of-care devices, enhances the efficiency of bilirubin testing in hospitals.

Additionally, the presence of specialized neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) in hospitals further drives the demand for bilirubin testing, particularly for newborns at risk of hyperbilirubinemia. This segment's dominance is expected to continue as hospitals remain central to acute and chronic bilirubin monitoring.

Recent Developments

• June 2024- Roche Diagnostics India Private Limited and Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a Centre of Excellence at MAHE in Manipal, Udupi district of Karnataka. An objective of this collaboration is to augment the development of skills and foster innovation in the domain of diagnostics.
• January 2024- Roche, a prominent multinational company in the fields of biotechnology and in-vitro diagnostics, inaugurated its Digital Centre of Excellence in Pune, India. The opening ceremony represents a noteworthy achievement in Roche's history in India, reiterating the company's dedication to being a center for digital expertise and innovative leadership in the healthcare sector.

Analyst's Review

As per our research analyst, the bilirubin blood test market is on the cusp of substantial growth, driven by technological advancements, an aging population, and an increasing focus on preventive healthcare. Companies should prioritize expanding their product offerings, particularly non-invasive and AI-driven diagnostics, to meet rising demand.

Additionally, tapping into emerging markets in Asia-Pacific and Latin America, where healthcare infrastructure is rapidly improving, presents significant opportunities. Furthermore, strategic investments in research and development, along with partnerships with healthcare providers, will be crucial for capitalizing on these growth prospects.