Teal Health, a startup aiming to revolutionize women’s healthcare, has raised $10 million in a seed extension round to develop its Teal Wand, a first-of-its-kind at-home cervical cancer screening device.
The funding was led by Emerson Collective and Forerunner, with participation from Serena Ventures and Chelsea Clinton. This round brings Teal Health’s total funding to $23 million.
Making Cervical Cancer Screenings More Accessible
The traditional process for cervical cancer screening, often associated with discomfort and inconvenience, deters many women from regular testing. Co-founders Kara Egan and Dr. Avnesh Thakor saw an opportunity to make the experience more accessible and comfortable.
“Cervical cancer screenings are the most important and often the entry point to a women’s health relationship,” said Egan, co-founder and CEO. “More than 1 in 4 women are currently behind on this life-saving screening.”
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How the Teal Wand Works
Pending FDA approval, the Teal Wand will allow users to collect samples at home. The process includes:
- Requesting an at-home collection kit via the telehealth platform.
- Using the Teal Wand to collect vaginal samples.
- Sealing and shipping the sample to a certified lab for analysis.
Teal Health will provide telehealth support throughout the process, answering user questions and ensuring a seamless experience.
Addressing a Pressing Health Concern
Cervical cancer, once a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women, has seen significant declines due to preventive measures. However, screening rates have plateaued in recent years, partly because many women are unable or reluctant to attend in-person appointments.
Egan emphasized the urgency of the company’s mission:
“The standard care is no longer working for women. Declining screening rates are contributing to rising cancer rates. Our solution makes preventive screening more accessible, comfortable, and convenient.”
Strong Investor Interest
The firm emerged from stealth in January 2023 and began clinical trials later that year. Interest in women’s health innovation has grown, with investors recognizing the need for accessible solutions.
“This funding will help us enhance our telehealth platform, patient portal, and educational resources, as well as scale across the U.S.,” Egan shared.
Competition and Market Potential
The startup competes primarily with traditional OB/GYN visits, aiming to provide a more convenient alternative. By removing the need for in-office appointments, the company hopes to increase screening rates and contribute to the elimination of cervical cancer in the U.S.
Egan summarized the company’s vision:
“By making critical preventive screenings more accessible, we have the power to increase screening rates and ultimately eliminate cervical cancer in the U.S.”
With its innovative product, strong investor backing, and a clear mission, Teal Health is poised to redefine how women approach cervical cancer screenings.
