The medical clothing market is set for significant growth. Growth in demand will be underpinned by a number of factors, including a continued rise in many parts of the world of chronic diseases and conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer and respiratory disorders; ageing populations in many parts of the world; and an increase in the number of surgeries performed in key health care markets such as Europe and the US.

These factors are presenting significant challenges to public health authorities which must combat illness and disease in a manner which is cost effective. Indeed, the costs of providing health care continue to rise. As a result, preventing the spread of infection is of the utmost importance.

Advances in electronics, medical technology and textiles are enabling the development of high tech clothing. Such clothing has been shown to protect against infectious diseases, sense the state of the wearer's health, and help in the prevention, treatment and management of ill health.

Producers of nonwoven garments are likely to lead the way in development in this segment, given their strong position in medical protective wear.
Use of health monitoring garments can help reduce reliance on costly or heavily burdened health care systems.