According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are an estimated 374 million new infections every year, including four curable sexually transmitted infections (STIs), namely chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and trichomoniasis. Very often these infections remain asymptomatic, leading to their rapid spread. Moreover, individuals suspecting having the infection, shy away from seeking an examination due to the stigma attached to STIs and high cost of traditional tests. Left untreated, STIs can cause dire health complications, including neurological and cardiovascular disease, pelvic inflammatory disease, increased risk of HIV and certain cancers.
Biopôle-based Testmate Health has developed a low-cost, over-the-counter diagnostic urine test for STIs with the initial focus on chlamydia and gonorrhea, which are two of the top infective causes of infertility worldwide. Upon buying the self-test kit, the user collects a sample, which is analysed at home. Results are delivered within 30 minutes, hence eliminating the need for medical visits, while granting privacy and convenience. In the case of a positive diagnosis, the user is directly connected to a healthcare professional for a consultation & prescription. With this approach, Testmate aims to provide an end-to-end experience from sample collection to prescription.
The company has raised $6M in a seed funding round led by RH Capital with participation from Zürcher Kantonalbank, The Helm, Amboy Street Ventures, Lichtsteiner Foundation, DART Ventures and Gaingels. The funding will enable Testmate to speed up product development, testing, and market validation.
From a financial perspective, the STI diagnostics market is expected to grow to $18B by 2032. This forecast is backed by the rising rates of sexually transmitted diseases coupled with increased awareness and innovative testing approaches. Additionally, the WHO has designated the STI epidemic as a major public health concern, encouraging more collaborative efforts between healthcare providers, policymakers, and the private sector.
“Our goal is making a positive impact on global public health by helping end the silent epidemic of sexually transmitted infections for chlamydia and gonorrhea,” says Siew-Veena Sahi, Founder of Testmate Health. “Through Testmate's low-cost urine-based DNA platform detection technology, we're empowering individuals to take control of their sexual health with accessible, accurate, and convenient testing solutions, from home.”
(Press release / SR)
Image: ©Amboy Street Ventures / Testmate Health
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