The global positron emission tomography (PET) scanners market, valued at US$ 2.2 Bn in 2024, is projected to expand at a CAGR of 3.2% from 2025 to 2035, reaching US$ 3.1 Bn by the end of 2035. The market is witnessing sustained growth, driven by continuous technological advancements in diagnostic imaging, integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in clinical workflows, and rising demand for early and accurate disease diagnosis across oncology, cardiology, and neurology.

Analysts’ Viewpoint

According to analysts, the global PET scanners industry is thriving as healthcare systems worldwide prioritize precision diagnostics and minimally invasive imaging. The adoption of hybrid modalities such as PET/CT and PET/MRI has improved diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes, especially in oncology and neuroimaging. With hospitals and diagnostic centers investing heavily in advanced imaging systems, manufacturers are focusing on digital PET scanners, AI-enabled platforms, and compact portable systems to meet evolving clinical needs.

The integration of PET with other imaging modalities has transformed diagnostic perspectives—allowing clinicians to simultaneously assess anatomical and functional information. Moreover, PET imaging’s role in clinical trials, particularly for evaluating new therapies, continues to expand. As research institutions and pharmaceutical companies increase the use of molecular imaging, the market is expected to witness sustained adoption in both developed and emerging economies.

Market Introduction

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scanners are advanced imaging systems that visualize metabolic activity in organs and tissues by detecting gamma rays emitted by radiotracers injected into the body. Unlike structural imaging techniques such as CT or MRI, PET provides functional insights—allowing physicians to detect disease at the molecular level even before anatomical changes occur.

PET scans are vital in diagnosing cancer, cardiac conditions, and neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and epilepsy. The growing emphasis on early and accurate disease detection has made PET scanners indispensable in modern healthcare. The increasing shift toward AI-driven image reconstruction and digital detectors is further improving image resolution, scan speed, and patient comfort.

1. Rising Prevalence of Chronic Diseases

The global rise in chronic diseases—including cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and neurological conditions—is a key driver of PET scanner adoption. PET imaging’s ability to measure metabolic function and detect disease activity at the cellular level makes it an essential tool for early diagnosis and treatment monitoring.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) accounted for 43 million deaths globally in 2021, representing nearly 75% of all non-pandemic deaths. Among these, cancer alone caused over 10 million deaths, underscoring the need for reliable diagnostic technologies. PET scanners, with their high precision in staging tumors and evaluating treatment response, have become critical in reducing mortality through early intervention.

2. Growing Demand for Personalized Medicine

The shift toward personalized medicine—tailoring treatment based on genetic and molecular profiles—is fueling PET scanner utilization. PET imaging provides real-time insights into a patient’s functional and metabolic characteristics, enabling physicians to design individualized treatment plans.

In oncology, PET helps determine the biological behavior of tumors and monitor therapy response. In cardiology, PET quantifies myocardial blood flow and viability, while in neurology, it aids in mapping brain metabolism and detecting early neurodegenerative changes. As healthcare systems adopt patient-centric care models, the integration of PET imaging in personalized treatment pathways will further accelerate market expansion.

Technological Trends Shaping the PET Scanners Market

• Hybrid Imaging Systems: PET/CT and PET/MRI scanners are gaining traction due to their ability to merge functional and structural data, improving disease localization and characterization.
• Digital PET Technology: Digital detectors are replacing analog systems, delivering enhanced sensitivity, faster image acquisition, and reduced radiation exposure.
• AI and Automation: Artificial intelligence facilitates automated image interpretation, reduces diagnostic errors, and optimizes workflow efficiency.
• Portable PET Systems: Compact, transportable PET scanners are improving access to advanced diagnostics in outpatient clinics and regional hospitals.

Manufacturers are also forming strategic alliances with academic and research institutions to develop innovative radiotracers and AI-based image processing solutions, further broadening clinical applications.

Segment Outlook

By Modality

1. PET/CT Scanners – Dominant Segment
   PET/CT systems hold the largest market share, combining metabolic and structural imaging in a single scan. This integration enhances diagnostic confidence, particularly in oncology, where PET/CT helps accurately stage cancers and monitor treatment response.
2. PET/MRI Scanners
   These offer superior soft tissue contrast and are increasingly used in neurological and pediatric imaging, where radiation exposure must be minimized.
3. Standalone PET Scanners
   Although declining in popularity, standalone systems remain relevant in research settings and specific clinical applications.

Competitive Landscape

The global PET scanners market is moderately consolidated, with key players focusing on technological innovation, product diversification, and strategic partnerships. Leading companies are developing AI-integrated digital PET systems to enhance imaging precision and reduce operational costs.

Key Market Players:

• GE HealthCare
• Siemens Healthcare Private Limited
• Canon Medical Systems Corporation
• United Imaging Healthcare Co., Ltd.
• Koninklijke Philips N.V.
• Mediso Ltd
• Neusoft Medical Systems Co., Ltd.
• Bruker
• Shimadzu Corporation
• Positrigo AG
• SynchroPET

Recent Developments

• June 2025 – Shimadzu Corporation received FDA clearance for its PositView PET system designed for head and breast imaging, expanding its presence in the U.S. diagnostic imaging market.
• June 2024 – Siemens Healthineers launched the Biograph Trinion PET/CT scanner, engineered for improved efficiency, enhanced sustainability, and reduced operational costs, marking a significant step toward next-generation imaging technology.

Market Outlook and Future Opportunities

The positron emission tomography (PET) scanners market is on a steady upward trajectory, supported by technological convergence, growing chronic disease burden, and the global shift toward personalized medicine. Emerging opportunities lie in:

• AI-assisted diagnostics and quantitative imaging analytics
• Expansion of PET imaging in community healthcare settings
• Development of cost-effective radiotracers for new disease targets

By 2035, as healthcare systems continue to emphasize precision diagnostics and preventive medicine, the global PET scanners market is projected to surpass US$ 3.1 Bn, positioning itself as a cornerstone technology for advanced medical imaging worldwide.