Absorbent Pads

Absorbent Pads Market Outlook

The global absorbent pads market is anticipated to reach USD 10 billion by the year 2035, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2035. The primary drivers of this growth are the increasing awareness regarding hygiene, the rising incidence of incontinence, and the expanding healthcare sector. In addition, the growing demand for environmentally friendly and sustainable products has led to innovations in absorbent pad materials, such as biodegradable options. Moreover, the rise in disposable income and changing lifestyles are also expected to boost market consumption significantly. The ongoing research and development activities aimed at improving product efficacy and comfort further contribute to the positive outlook of the market.

Growth Factor of the Market

The absorbent pads market is significantly influenced by a multitude of growth factors, among which the increasing aging population is paramount. As the global demographic trend shifts towards an older population, the prevalence of incontinence and related issues is expected to rise, driving demand for absorbent products. Additionally, heightened awareness about personal hygiene, particularly in developing nations, has led to an uptick in the consumption of absorbent pads across various applications. The healthcare sector's expansion, propelled by the COVID-19 pandemic, has also accelerated the demand for high-quality sanitary products. Furthermore, the push towards environmentally-conscious consumer choices is encouraging manufacturers to innovate in biodegradable and reusable options, thereby attracting a broader customer base. The advent of online retailing has also made absorbent pads more accessible to consumers, facilitating a significant increase in sales. This dynamic interplay of factors continues to fuel growth in the absorbent pads market.

Key Highlights of the Market

• The global absorbent pads market is projected to reach USD 10 billion by 2035.
• Disposable absorbent pads dominate the product type segment, with high demand in both healthcare and personal care applications.
• North America is expected to lead the market, accounting for a significant share due to advanced healthcare infrastructure.
• Online retail channels are increasingly popular for absorbent pad purchases, facilitating consumer access.
• Innovations in sustainable materials are driving the trend towards eco-friendly absorbent pad options.

By Product Type

Disposable Absorbent Pads:

Disposable absorbent pads are a vital segment of the market, primarily due to their convenience and hygiene benefits. These pads are designed for one-time use, making them highly popular among consumers who prioritize ease of use and sanitary practices. They are extensively utilized in healthcare settings, as well as in personal care applications such as menstrual hygiene and incontinence management. Their widespread acceptance is also attributed to the increasing urbanization and busy lifestyles of consumers, who prefer products that minimize maintenance and can be discarded after use. The rise in environmental concerns has also prompted manufacturers to explore biodegradable materials, which could further enhance the market potential for disposable absorbent pads.

Reusable Absorbent Pads:

Reusable absorbent pads present an eco-friendly alternative to their disposable counterparts. These pads are designed to be washed and reused multiple times, making them a preferred choice for environmentally conscious consumers. Their growing popularity can be attributed to the increased awareness of sustainability issues and the rise in disposable income, allowing consumers to invest in longer-lasting products. The reusable pads market is also witnessing innovation, with advancements in material technology that improve absorbency, comfort, and durability. Moreover, the rise of subscription services for reusable pads has provided consumers with convenient access, further boosting demand in this segment.

Incontinence Pads:

Incontinence pads represent a crucial segment within the absorbent pads market, specifically designed to cater to individuals experiencing urinary incontinence. This product type is witnessing significant growth due to the aging population and the increasing acceptance of incontinence as a health issue. The pads are engineered to provide maximum absorbency and comfort, ensuring users can maintain their quality of life with dignity. Additionally, heightened awareness campaigns about incontinence management are encouraging more individuals to seek these products, thus propelling market growth. Manufacturers are also focusing on product enhancements, including softer materials and better adhesive technology to appeal to consumers.

Menstrual Pads:

Menstrual pads are one of the most recognized product types in the absorbent pads market. The increasing awareness of menstrual health, coupled with the ongoing initiatives to break the stigma around menstruation, has driven demand for menstrual pads significantly. Women today have a plethora of choices when it comes to menstrual products, and many are opting for absorbent pads for their comfort and effectiveness. Innovations in the design of menstrual pads, such as ultra-thin and organic options, are attracting a broader demographic, particularly younger consumers who prioritize both functionality and sustainability. Furthermore, the growing trend towards menstrual cups and eco-friendly alternatives is also shaping the product landscape.

Medical Pads:

Medical pads find extensive application in hospitals and clinics, specifically designed for use during medical procedures. These pads are made from specialized materials that ensure maximum absorbency while minimizing the risk of contamination. The market for medical pads is expected to grow steadily due to the increasing number of surgical procedures and rising healthcare expenditure globally. Furthermore, advances in medical technology and the evolving standards of patient care are driving demand for high-quality medical absorbent pads. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on developing pads with advanced absorbent technologies, which cater to the unique needs of healthcare professionals and patients alike.

By Application

Healthcare:

The healthcare segment is a significant contributor to the absorbent pads market, as these products play a crucial role in maintaining hygiene within clinical environments. Hospitals and care facilities utilize absorbent pads for post-surgical care, incontinence management, and patient comfort. The growing emphasis on patient care and hygiene standards has led to an increase in the consumption of high-quality absorbent pads in healthcare settings. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, the demand for innovative absorbent solutions that meet stringent safety and comfort specifications is expected to rise, further boosting growth in this segment.

Personal Care:

Personal care is another prominent application area for absorbent pads, encompassing a wide range of products from menstrual pads to incontinence solutions. The growing awareness of personal hygiene, particularly among young consumers, is driving the demand for absorbent pads in this segment. Moreover, the availability of diverse products catering to specific needs and preferences is playing an essential role in this segment's expansion. With increasing disposable income and changing social norms around menstruation and incontinence, the personal care segment is likely to see ongoing growth, with consumers investing in higher-quality, comfortable, and effective absorbent products.

Industrial:

The industrial application of absorbent pads is primarily focused on spill management and cleanup solutions in various sectors, including manufacturing and oil & gas. These absorbent pads are engineered to contain and absorb hazardous substances, contributing to workplace safety and compliance with environmental regulations. The rising awareness of occupational safety and the need for efficient spill control measures are driving the demand for industrial absorbent pads. As industries increasingly adopt stringent safety measures and environmental regulations, the market for industrial absorbent pads is expected to witness significant growth, catering to the needs of various industries.

Agriculture:

In the agricultural sector, absorbent pads are used primarily for the management of animal waste and enhancing soil moisture retention. These pads help in maintaining hygiene in livestock operations and are gaining acceptance among farmers looking for effective waste management solutions. The increasing focus on sustainable farming practices and the need for efficient water conservation methods are propelling the demand for absorbent pads in agriculture. As agricultural practices evolve and farmers seek innovative solutions to enhance productivity, this segment is poised for growth, emphasizing the utility of absorbent pads in sustainable agriculture.

Others:

This category includes a variety of applications for absorbent pads that do not fall into the primary segments of healthcare, personal care, industrial, or agricultural. It encompasses uses in household cleaning, pet care, and other niche markets. The versatility of absorbent pads allows them to cater to a wide array of consumer needs, thereby expanding their market presence. As more consumers discover innovative uses for absorbent pads in their daily lives, this segment is expected to grow, driven by trends in eco-friendliness and convenience.

By Distribution Channel

Online Retail:

Online retail has emerged as a dominant distribution channel for absorbent pads, thanks to the convenience and accessibility it offers to consumers. The rapid growth of e-commerce platforms has transformed the way consumers shop, allowing them to browse and purchase absorbent pads from the comfort of their homes. This channel is particularly appealing to younger consumers who prefer online shopping for its ease and variety of options. The ongoing enhancement of online shopping experiences, including subscription services and personalized recommendations, is also contributing to the growth of online retail in the absorbent pads market.

Offline Retail:

Offline retail remains a crucial distribution channel for absorbent pads, particularly in regions where traditional shopping habits are prevalent. Supermarkets, pharmacies, and convenience stores provide a straightforward shopping experience, allowing consumers to purchase absorbent pads directly. The visibility and availability of absorbent pads in physical stores ensure that consumers can quickly access products when needed. As the demand for absorbent pads continues to rise, retailers are likely to expand their offerings and ensure a wide variety of products are available for consumers in offline settings.

Specialty Stores:

Specialty stores, which focus on health and wellness products, are increasingly becoming popular distribution channels for absorbent pads. These stores offer a curated selection of high-quality products, often catering to specific consumer needs, such as organic or eco-friendly absorbent pads. The specialized nature of these stores attracts health-conscious consumers who are willing to pay a premium for quality and sustainability. As consumer preferences shift towards personalized shopping experiences and specific product attributes, specialty stores are expected to play a vital role in the absorbent pads market.

Hypermarkets/Supermarkets:

Hypermarkets and supermarkets serve as key distribution points for absorbent pads, providing consumers with access to a wide range of products under one roof. This channel benefits from the high footfall of consumers seeking convenience and variety, enabling them to find and purchase absorbent pads alongside their regular grocery shopping. Retailers often feature promotional activities and discounts on absorbent pads, further incentivizing purchases. The commitment of hypermarkets and supermarkets to maintaining an extensive inventory of absorbent pads ensures that consumer demands are met consistently.

Others:

Other distribution channels for absorbent pads include convenience stores, drugstores, and vending machines. These channels offer unique advantages, such as quick access and immediate purchase options for consumers in need of absorbent products. Convenience stores, often located in strategic locations, cater to consumers who seek immediate solutions for hygiene needs. Drugstores play a vital role in ensuring that absorbent pads are readily available to consumers, particularly those requiring specialized products for medical needs. As the market for absorbent pads expands, this diverse array of distribution channels will continue to contribute to overall sales growth.

By Material Type

Polymer:

Polymer-based absorbent pads are widely utilized due to their excellent absorbency and versatility. These materials are designed to efficiently retain moisture, making them ideal for various applications, including healthcare and personal care. The adaptability of polymer materials allows manufacturers to engineer pads that meet specific consumer needs while maintaining affordability. As research and development efforts continue to enhance the performance of polymer-based absorbent pads, this segment is expected to grow, supported by the demand for high-quality, effective absorbent solutions.

Cotton:

Cotton absorbent pads are favored for their natural properties, comfort, and breathability. The demand for cotton pads is driven by increasing consumer preferences for organic and hypoallergenic products, especially in intimate hygiene applications such as menstrual and incontinence pads. As consumers become more aware of the benefits of using natural materials, cotton absorbent pads are likely to gain traction in the market. Furthermore, the eco-friendly characteristics of cotton make it an attractive option for sustainability-conscious consumers, enhancing its market appeal.

Super Absorbent Polymers:

Super absorbent polymers (SAPs) are engineered materials capable of absorbing and retaining large volumes of liquid relative to their mass. These materials are primarily used in high-performance absorbent pads, particularly in medical and personal care applications. The increasing demand for highly absorbent products has led to the incorporation of SAPs in various absorbent pad designs, contributing to improved efficacy and user satisfaction. The ongoing focus on product innovation and technological advancements in SAPs is expected to drive growth in this segment as manufacturers seek to enhance the performance of absorbent pads.

Bamboo Fiber:

Bamboo fiber is gaining popularity as a sustainable alternative in absorbent pad materials. The natural properties of bamboo, including its antimicrobial and breathable characteristics, make it an appealing choice for consumers seeking eco-friendly products. This material is increasingly being utilized in the production of menstrual and incontinence pads, aligning with the growing trend towards sustainability in personal care products. As consumers continue to prioritize environmentally responsible choices, the demand for absorbent pads made from bamboo fiber is expected to rise, supporting the growth of this material segment.

Others:

This category includes various alternative materials used in absorbent pads, such as hemp, recycled fibers, and specialty blends. The growing interest in sustainable and innovative materials is driving the exploration of these alternatives, as manufacturers seek to meet the diverse preferences of consumers. As sustainability becomes a key consideration for consumers, the market for absorbent pads utilizing alternative materials is likely to expand. Manufacturers are encouraged to pursue research and development initiatives that focus on improving the absorbency and comfort of these alternative materials, thereby enhancing their market viability.

By Region

The absorbent pads market is witnessing significant growth across various regions, with North America leading the charge due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure and high consumer awareness regarding personal hygiene. The North American market is projected to account for approximately 35% of the global market share by 2035, driven by the increasing aging population and the rising incidence of incontinence. The region is also experiencing an uptick in the availability of innovative absorbent products, further propelling market growth. Additionally, heightened investment in healthcare services and consumer education initiatives about hygiene practices are set to reinforce the region's market dominance.

Europe is expected to follow closely, representing around 30% of the global absorbent pads market by 2035. The region is characterized by a strong emphasis on sustainability, prompting consumers to seek eco-friendly absorbent pad options. As public awareness about personal hygiene and wellness continues to rise, the demand for absorbent pads in Europe is likely to witness steady growth. Furthermore, the rapidly evolving retail landscape, especially in e-commerce, is facilitating greater accessibility and convenience for consumers seeking absorbent pads. Countries such as Germany and France are anticipated to contribute significantly to the market expansion within Europe, driven by their robust healthcare systems and growing consumer preferences.

Opportunities

The absorbent pads market presents numerous opportunities driven by evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements. One significant opportunity lies in the increasing demand for eco-friendly and sustainable products. As consumers become more environmentally conscious, manufacturers are incentivized to innovate and develop absorbent pads made from biodegradable and natural materials. This shift towards sustainability not only caters to consumer preferences but also positions companies favorably in a market that is becoming increasingly competitive. The integration of sustainable practices in production processes can also enhance brand loyalty and attract a broader customer base, providing fertile ground for growth.

Moreover, the expansion of e-commerce platforms is reshaping the landscape of the absorbent pads market. As online shopping continues to gain traction, companies that leverage digital marketing and enhance their online presence can tap into a larger audience. This trend presents an opportunity for absorbent pad manufacturers to create subscription-based services that deliver products directly to consumers, ensuring convenience and fostering brand loyalty. Additionally, partnerships with online retailers can facilitate wider distribution, enhancing accessibility for consumers across diverse demographics. As the market continues to evolve, companies must adapt to these opportunities to capitalize on the growing demand for absorbent pads.

Threats

Despite the promising growth of the absorbent pads market, several potential threats could impact its trajectory. One significant threat is the rising competition from alternative hygiene products, such as menstrual cups and reusable cloth pads, which are gaining popularity among environmentally conscious consumers. As these alternatives become more mainstream, they may cannibalize sales from traditional absorbent pads, particularly in the personal care segment. Furthermore, advancements in technology and material science could lead to the emergence of new products that challenge the dominance of absorbent pads. Manufacturers must proactively address these competitive threats by focusing on product innovation and effectively communicating the benefits of their absorbent pads to consumers.

Another considerable threat is the volatility in raw material prices, which may adversely affect production costs for absorbent pad manufacturers. Fluctuations in the costs of materials such as cotton and polymers can lead to increased operational expenses, forcing companies to raise prices or compromise on quality. Additionally, regulatory challenges related to environmental standards and product safety can pose significant hurdles for manufacturers seeking to navigate the complex landscape of the absorbent pads market. Ensuring compliance with regulations while maintaining product efficacy and safety is essential to mitigate these threats and sustain market growth.

Competitor Outlook

• Pampers
• Huggies
• Procter & Gamble
• Kimberly-Clark Corporation
• Unicharm Corporation
• Essity AB
• Chicco
• Medline Industries
• Attends Healthcare Products
• First Quality Enterprises
• Freudenberg Group
• Ontex
• ABENA
• Kangaroo Brands
• Edgewell Personal Care

The competitive landscape of the absorbent pads market is characterized by a diverse array of players, each vying for market share through product innovation, strategic partnerships, and extensive marketing efforts. Key players in the market are focusing on enhancing their product portfolios to meet the changing preferences of consumers. This is often achieved through the development of value-added products that incorporate advanced materials and technologies to improve absorbency, comfort, and environmental sustainability. Additionally, companies are increasingly investing in research and development to drive innovation and stay ahead of competitors, ensuring they can meet emerging consumer demands effectively.

Prominent players in the absorbent pads market, such as Procter & Gamble and Kimberly-Clark Corporation, have established themselves as leaders due to their extensive product ranges and strong brand recognition. Procter & Gamble, known for its Pampers and Always brands, continues to invest in marketing campaigns that emphasize the quality and effectiveness of its absorbent pads, while also focusing on sustainability initiatives. Kimberly-Clark, with brands like Huggies and Depend, is similarly committed to product innovation and sustainability, working to create absorbent pads that are not only effective but also environmentally friendly.

Other notable players, like Unicharm Corporation and Essity AB, are also leveraging their market presence to expand their product offerings. Unicharm is recognized for its focus on high-quality absorbent products tailored for both healthcare and personal care needs, while Essity emphasizes sustainability and innovation in its product development efforts. As competition intensifies, these companies are likely to adopt more aggressive strategies to enhance their market positioning and capture a larger share of the growing absorbent pads market.

• 1 Appendix

  • 1.1 List of Tables
  • 1.2 List of Figures

• 2 Introduction

  • 2.1 Market Definition
  • 2.2 Scope of the Report
  • 2.3 Study Assumptions
  • 2.4 Base Currency & Forecast Periods

• 3 Market Dynamics

  • 3.1 Market Growth Factors
  • 3.2 Economic & Global Events
  • 3.3 Innovation Trends
  • 3.4 Supply Chain Analysis

• 4 Consumer Behavior

  • 4.1 Market Trends
  • 4.2 Pricing Analysis
  • 4.3 Buyer Insights

• 5 Key Player Profiles

  • 5.1 ABENA
    • 5.1.1 Business Overview
    • 5.1.2 Products & Services
    • 5.1.3 Financials
    • 5.1.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.1.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.2 Ontex
    • 5.2.1 Business Overview
    • 5.2.2 Products & Services
    • 5.2.3 Financials
    • 5.2.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.2.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.3 Chicco
    • 5.3.1 Business Overview
    • 5.3.2 Products & Services
    • 5.3.3 Financials
    • 5.3.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.3.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.4 Huggies
    • 5.4.1 Business Overview
    • 5.4.2 Products & Services
    • 5.4.3 Financials
    • 5.4.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.4.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.5 Pampers
    • 5.5.1 Business Overview
    • 5.5.2 Products & Services
    • 5.5.3 Financials
    • 5.5.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.5.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.6 Essity AB
    • 5.6.1 Business Overview
    • 5.6.2 Products & Services
    • 5.6.3 Financials
    • 5.6.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.6.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.7 Kangaroo Brands
    • 5.7.1 Business Overview
    • 5.7.2 Products & Services
    • 5.7.3 Financials
    • 5.7.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.7.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.8 Procter & Gamble
    • 5.8.1 Business Overview
    • 5.8.2 Products & Services
    • 5.8.3 Financials
    • 5.8.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.8.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.9 Freudenberg Group
    • 5.9.1 Business Overview
    • 5.9.2 Products & Services
    • 5.9.3 Financials
    • 5.9.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.9.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.10 Medline Industries
    • 5.10.1 Business Overview
    • 5.10.2 Products & Services
    • 5.10.3 Financials
    • 5.10.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.10.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.11 Unicharm Corporation
    • 5.11.1 Business Overview
    • 5.11.2 Products & Services
    • 5.11.3 Financials
    • 5.11.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.11.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.12 Edgewell Personal Care
    • 5.12.1 Business Overview
    • 5.12.2 Products & Services
    • 5.12.3 Financials
    • 5.12.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.12.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.13 First Quality Enterprises
    • 5.13.1 Business Overview
    • 5.13.2 Products & Services
    • 5.13.3 Financials
    • 5.13.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.13.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.14 Kimberly-Clark Corporation
    • 5.14.1 Business Overview
    • 5.14.2 Products & Services
    • 5.14.3 Financials
    • 5.14.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.14.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.15 Attends Healthcare Products
    • 5.15.1 Business Overview
    • 5.15.2 Products & Services
    • 5.15.3 Financials
    • 5.15.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.15.5 SWOT Analysis

• 6 Market Segmentation

  • 6.1 Absorbent Pads Market, By Application
    • 6.1.1 Healthcare
    • 6.1.2 Personal Care
    • 6.1.3 Industrial
    • 6.1.4 Agriculture
    • 6.1.5 Others
  • 6.2 Absorbent Pads Market, By Product Type
    • 6.2.1 Disposable Absorbent Pads
    • 6.2.2 Reusable Absorbent Pads
    • 6.2.3 Incontinence Pads
    • 6.2.4 Menstrual Pads
    • 6.2.5 Medical Pads
  • 6.3 Absorbent Pads Market, By Material Type
    • 6.3.1 Polymer
    • 6.3.2 Cotton
    • 6.3.3 Super Absorbent Polymers
    • 6.3.4 Bamboo Fiber
    • 6.3.5 Others
  • 6.4 Absorbent Pads Market, By Distribution Channel
    • 6.4.1 Online Retail
    • 6.4.2 Offline Retail
    • 6.4.3 Specialty Stores
    • 6.4.4 Hypermarkets/Supermarkets
    • 6.4.5 Others

• 7 Competitive Analysis

  • 7.1 Key Player Comparison
  • 7.2 Market Share Analysis
  • 7.3 Investment Trends
  • 7.4 SWOT Analysis

• 8 Research Methodology

  • 8.1 Analysis Design
  • 8.2 Research Phases
  • 8.3 Study Timeline

• 9 Future Market Outlook

  • 9.1 Growth Forecast
  • 9.2 Market Evolution

• 10 Geographical Overview

  • 10.1 Europe - Market Analysis
    • 10.1.1 By Country
      • 10.1.1.1 UK
      • 10.1.1.2 France
      • 10.1.1.3 Germany
      • 10.1.1.4 Spain
      • 10.1.1.5 Italy
  • 10.2 Asia Pacific - Market Analysis
    • 10.2.1 By Country
      • 10.2.1.1 India
      • 10.2.1.2 China
      • 10.2.1.3 Japan
      • 10.2.1.4 South Korea
  • 10.3 Absorbent Pads Market by Region
  • 10.4 Latin America - Market Analysis
    • 10.4.1 By Country
      • 10.4.1.1 Brazil
      • 10.4.1.2 Argentina
      • 10.4.1.3 Mexico
  • 10.5 North America - Market Analysis
    • 10.5.1 By Country
      • 10.5.1.1 USA
      • 10.5.1.2 Canada
  • 10.6 Middle East & Africa - Market Analysis
    • 10.6.1 By Country
      • 10.6.1.1 Middle East
      • 10.6.1.2 Africa

• 11 Global Economic Factors

  • 11.1 Inflation Impact
  • 11.2 Trade Policies

• 12 Technology & Innovation

  • 12.1 Emerging Technologies
  • 12.2 AI & Digital Trends
  • 12.3 Patent Research

• 13 Investment & Market Growth

  • 13.1 Funding Trends
  • 13.2 Future Market Projections

• 14 Market Overview & Key Insights

  • 14.1 Executive Summary
  • 14.2 Key Trends
  • 14.3 Market Challenges
  • 14.4 Regulatory Landscape

Segments Analyzed in the Report

The global Absorbent Pads market is categorized based on

By Product Type

• Disposable Absorbent Pads
• Reusable Absorbent Pads
• Incontinence Pads
• Menstrual Pads
• Medical Pads

By Application

• Healthcare
• Personal Care
• Industrial
• Agriculture
• Others

By Distribution Channel

• Online Retail
• Offline Retail
• Specialty Stores
• Hypermarkets/Supermarkets
• Others

By Material Type

• Polymer
• Cotton
• Super Absorbent Polymers
• Bamboo Fiber
• Others

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East & Africa

Key Players

• Pampers
• Huggies
• Procter & Gamble
• Kimberly-Clark Corporation
• Unicharm Corporation
• Essity AB
• Chicco
• Medline Industries
• Attends Healthcare Products
• First Quality Enterprises
• Freudenberg Group
• Ontex
• ABENA
• Kangaroo Brands
• Edgewell Personal Care