Teal Health Secures $10 Million in Funding to Revolutionize Cervical Cancer Screening with At-Home Solution
Teal Health has announced the close of an additional $10 million in seed funding, bringing its total investment to $23 million as the company prepares to launch the Teal Wand, an at-home self-collection cervical cancer screening device currently under FDA review. This innovative solution aims to address longstanding challenges in cervical cancer prevention by offering a convenient and user-friendly alternative to traditional in-clinic screenings.
The funding round was led by Emerson Collective and Forerunner, with participation from notable investors such as Serena Ventures, Metrodora, and Labcorp. The capital will support Teal Health in advancing its product development and executing its go-to-market plans. The company has also benefited from a $1.68 million Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant from the National Cancer Institute and the FDA’s Breakthrough Device Designation for its device.
Cervical cancer screening is a critical component of preventive healthcare for approximately 92 million U.S. individuals of screening age. Despite its importance, one in four women and people with a cervix are not screened regularly due to barriers such as limited access to healthcare and discomfort with invasive procedures. Teal Health’s at-home solution aims to overcome these barriers by making the screening process more accessible and comfortable.
Nicole Johnson, a partner at Forerunner, emphasized the need for healthcare systems to prioritize patient experiences. “Many healthcare systems overlook the consumer’s perspective, especially in women’s health. Teal Health provides an opportunity to redesign a routine and essential health screening, making it more accessible and effective,” she said.
Teal Health At-Home Screening Device – Teal Wand
Recent research supports the efficacy of self-collection devices like the Teal Wand. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has recognized self-collected HPV samples as equally accurate to those collected in clinical settings, highlighting their potential to improve screening adherence. This is particularly impactful for historically underserved populations and those who face challenges accessing traditional healthcare facilities.
Teal Health’s approach is grounded in rigorous research and user feedback. A nationwide clinical study found that 94% of participants across various demographics preferred the at-home option over traditional in-clinic procedures. By addressing concerns such as convenience and comfort, the company hopes to encourage higher rates of routine screening.
CEO Kara Egan on Latest Funding
Kara Egan, CEO of Teal Health, highlighted the broader mission behind the company’s work. “This funding enables us to deliver a screening solution that aligns with the needs and preferences of women. Our goal is to remove barriers to essential healthcare and empower women to take control of their health with ease and confidence,” she said.
Teal Health is also leveraging its telehealth platform to ensure a seamless user experience, allowing individuals to receive results and follow-up care without needing to visit a clinic. The shift toward Primary HPV testing, as recommended by healthcare guidelines, further supports the relevance of the Teal Wand in modern cervical cancer screening.
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Matt Bettonville, an investor at Yosemite, emphasized the potential of this approach to save lives. “Cervical cancer is preventable and treatable with early detection. Teal’s solution makes the process easier and more accessible for millions who may not otherwise participate in routine screening,” he said.
To mark Cervical Cancer Awareness Month in January, Teal Health is pledging to donate $1 to the American Cancer Society for every individual who commits to regular screening. With FDA approval under review, Teal Health is preparing to introduce its screening device to the U.S. market, aiming to transform the way cervical cancer is detected and prevented.
