Santen and Lumenis Forge Strategic Partnership to Empower China's Ophthalmic Ecosystem

Santen, an international ophthalmology specialist, and Lumenis, a leading provider of laser-based medical technologies for ophthalmology, have entered into a strategic partnership. By expanding sales and marketing efforts and exploring innovative business models, the two companies will leverage their respective professional strengths in ophthalmic diagnosis and treatment to deliver more comprehensive solutions for dry eye disease and glaucoma—two key focus areas. This collaboration aims to broaden access to high-quality resources and provide multi-level, in-depth empowerment to foster the development of the ophthalmology ecosystem.

Signing Ceremony of the Strategic Cooperation Agreement Between Santen and Lumenis

Data show that the current prevalence of dry eye disease in China is as high as 21%–30%.^[1], the number of dry eye patients is estimated to have reached 360 million, with a potential annual increase of 10%^[2]The Chinese Expert Consensus on Dry Eye (2020) has defined dry eye as a chronic disease in the same category as many cancers, hypertension, and diabetes. The condition is prone to recurrence, requires prolonged treatment, and significantly impairs patients’ work and daily life, necessitating chronic disease management. Glaucoma, moreover, is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide; if not diagnosed and treated promptly, visual field loss, once incurred, is difficult to reverse. With population aging and changes in lifestyle and environmental factors, the incidence of both diseases is expected to continue rising, severely affecting patients’ quality of life and the overall health status of the Chinese population.

The collaboration between the two parties will initially focus on two key areas: dry eye disease and glaucoma. Santen Pharmaceutical will leverage its extensive coverage and deep distribution channels in the Chinese market to promote and sell Lumenis’s diagnostic and therapeutic devices for dry eye disease and glaucoma to relevant departments of designated public healthcare institutions across China. These devices include:- The M22 Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) system for ophthalmology, which has completed multicenter clinical studies in China and obtained approval from the China National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the European CE marking for the indication of “dry eye.” Unlike traditional treatments, the M22 offers a novel, non-pharmacological and non-eye-drop therapy based on light energy, significantly improving various symptoms and signs of dry eye disease.- The D600 Dry Eye Comprehensive Analyzer, independently developed in China with multiple patented technologies and industry-leading functionalities. It provides comprehensive examination and automated analysis of ocular surface health and dry eye signs, thereby enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of clinical diagnosis.- The Selecta Duet integrated multifunctional laser platform, used for the treatment of glaucoma, posterior capsular opacification, and other posterior segment eye diseases.

 The images from left to right are: M22, D600, Selecta Duet

Takayuki Yamada, President of Santen’s China Region, stated, “Paying close attention to the actual needs of Chinese patients and recognizing the development potential of the Chinese market are the core driving factors enabling both parties to rapidly achieve in-depth cooperation. Dry eye disease and glaucoma have always been areas where Santen holds global advantages and maintains a strategic focus. The collaboration with Lumenis has realized complementary strengths and synergistic effects, providing higher-quality solutions for Chinese patients.”

Zhai Qiying, Senior President for Asia-Pacific and China at Lumenis, stated, “The Chinese market has always been a key focus of Lumenis’ global strategy. We remain committed to our localization strategy, increasing investment in the Chinese market to benefit more people in China. Through this collaboration with Santen, our high-quality products and services will reach broader regions and populations, not only empowering the overall development of ophthalmology in China but also providing an exemplary case for innovative industry partnership models.”

It is understood that both parties will continue to leverage their respective strengths, explore innovative models of collaboration, and jointly serve patients and the public in China, thereby contributing to the overall advancement of ophthalmic diagnosis and treatment standards in the country.

Santen Pharmaceutical focuses on the ophthalmology sector, primarily engaging in the research and development, marketing, and sales of pharmaceuticals, over-the-counter products, and medical devices, with its products now reaching patients in more than 60 countries and regions.

Santen is committed to ultimately realizing its “World Vision” (Happiness with Vision). As an “innovator for society,” Santen integrates key global technologies and resources to reduce the social and economic losses caused by ophthalmic diseases and discomfort worldwide.

With a history spanning over 130 years, Santen Pharmaceutical has amassed extensive scientific knowledge and developed strong organizational capabilities. The company is dedicated to providing products and services that improve the health and well-being of patients and their caregivers, thereby contributing to society.

Lumenis, a laser technology company founded in 1966, is the world’s oldest and largest medical laser company. Named after the Latin word “Lumenis,” meaning “light of life,” it is committed to its mission of “innovative technology, enhancing life.”

Lumenis has long been a pioneer and leader in the field of medical lasers, providing advanced and comprehensive products and services to physicians and patients across various medical specialties, including ophthalmology, dermatology, and gynecology. In ophthalmology, Lumenis achieved several historic firsts: it was the first to apply laser photocoagulators in ophthalmic practice, the first to introduce Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) for the treatment of glaucoma, and the first to implement photodynamic therapy in ophthalmology.

Lumenis boasts a robust independent R&D system and maintains close collaborations with prestigious institutions such as Stanford University and Harvard University. Its highly qualified, specialized workforce serves as the driving force behind Lumenis’s continuous innovation. The company currently holds more than 200 patented technologies, with an additional 118 patents pending, and has secured over 100 FDA clearances. Upholding its vision of “Energy to HealthCare,” Lumenis remains committed to providing doctors and patients worldwide with more comprehensive and advanced medical optical devices, leveraging technology to benefit humanity.

Data Source:

[1] "Chinese Expert Consensus on Dry Eye (2020)"

[2] "Multicenter Big Data Report on Dry Eye Disease in the Chinese Population":

https://baijiahao.baidu.com/s?id=1703910023041867300&wfr=spider&for=pc

[3] “Analysis of the Number of Patients with Various Eye Diseases and the Current Status of Ophthalmic Hospitals in China in 2020”

http://t.10jqka.com.cn/pid_195548871.shtml