A new, comprehensive report on “Single-Use Nonwoven Surgical Drapes and Gowns in Europe,” authored by Helena Engqvist in partnership with INDA, Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, provides insight into the market in six key European countries: France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden and the U.K.

The research time frame spans the years from 2000 to 2011 to give readers a historical trend viewpoint.

“During the last decade, issues, such as patient care and comfort, hygiene, hospital-acquired infections along with the rising cost of healthcare, have impacted the nonwovens medical segment,” says Rory Holmes, INDA president. “This report presents the insight and data to give companies an excellent view of the opportunity in Europe for single-use gowns and drapes moving forward.”

Helena Engqvist is an experienced industry veteran to the medical and healthcare nonwovens segment. Her core competencies include nonwovens, hygiene and healthcare products, consumer insight and business analysis, R&D and technology. Her career spans more than 30 years in management positions at Novartis in Switzerland, Johnson & Johnson in Germany and the U.S. and SCA in Sweden.

The report consists of three parts that will be published individually. The first part examines the market drivers, medical aspects, demographics, health economics and the market for single-use nonwoven surgical drapes and gowns.

The second part explores products, materials, the supply chain, industry participants and volumes. The final part examines the regulatory aspects impacting medical nonwovens, issues in the operating theater, manufacturers, healthcare organizations, hospital personnel and the outlook in surgical care.

“The potential for increasing the use of single-use nonwoven surgical drapes, gowns and clean air suits is driven by changing demographics,” says Engqvist. “European regulations and surgical procedures as well as population changes are leading to the development of more efficient and cost-effective surgeries. The aging population, especially in Europe, leads to an increasing number of age-related surgeries further driving up the cost of healthcare.”

“Patient and staff well-being, regulations and standards drive change towards single-use nonwoven surgical drapes and gowns,” she adds. “Penetration rates are still relatively low for single-use nonwoven surgical drapes and gowns in Europe, with large differences between countries. This presents growth opportunities for single-use nonwoven medical fabrics in Europe.”

The report is presented in three parts, available for purchase either as a complete set or in separate sections. Cost for the entire three-part report is $6,600 for INDA members and $8,000 for non-members. The report can be purchased separately with the first two sections available for $2,760 (INDA members) and $3,325 (non-members) and the third section is available for $2,200 (INDA members) and $2,660 (non-members). For more information or to purchase, visit www.inda.org.

INDA is a leading global association of the nonwoven fabrics industry. Since 1968, INDA has provided a variety of industry focused networking events to help members increase sales and market share. INDA is the nonwoven industry’s premier source for market leading education, global forecasts, testing standards and trend reports, which provides members the information and knowledge to better plan and execute their business. Through its on-the-ground efforts in Washington D.C., INDA provides members a strong voice within government on topics that affect the nonwovens industry.