Growth in the sleep market continues

BOSTON - Sleep center patient volume grew 7% in the last 12 months and is expected to grow 9% in the next 12 months, according to the results of a new survey conducted by Needham & Co. ResMed looks likely to lose 2% of flow generator prescription share, but gain branded mask prescription share. For flow generators, Respironics' share is up 1.1%, Fisher & Paykel's share is flat and other companies' share is up .8%. ResMed's mask ratings are slightly above its competitors in all three mask categories. In nasal masks, its AirFit N20 was rated 5.9 (out of 7.0), compared to Respironics' DreamWear at 5.7 and F&P's Eson 2 at 5.7. In nasal pillow masks, ResMed's AirFit P10 was rated 5.9, compared to Respironics' DreamWear Gel at 5.7 and F&P's Brevida at 4.7. And in full face masks, ResMed's AirFit F20 was rated 6.1, compared to Respironics' DreamWear Full at 5.9 and F&P's Simplus at 5.8.