ViWipe provides a non-invasive, paper-based self-test utilizing menstrual blood for simplified laboratory analysis. The initial product offers HPV-based cervical screening, addressing barriers associated with traditional speculum exams. This proprietary bio-tech platform is designed for future expansion into other STI testing applications.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Cervical cancer, often linked to HPV, results in hundreds of thousands of deaths annually, and traditional screening methods using a speculum can deter many women, particularly those under 35, from getting tested. This is further exacerbated among ethnic minorities, leading to delayed or missed diagnoses.
Solution
ViWipe offers a women-centric, non-invasive HPV screening solution utilizing menstrual blood collected via a paper-based self-sampling kit. The kit employs a patent-pending biotechnology to simplify lab testing, enabling women to conduct the initial screening process themselves. The collected samples are then sent to a lab for HPV DNA extraction and analysis, targeting high-risk HPV types associated with cervical cancer. ViWipe's approach aims to increase screening accessibility and frequency, ultimately contributing to earlier detection and prevention of cervical cancer. The paper-based collection method also allows for cold-chain-free transport and storage.
Target Audience
The primary target audience includes women aged 25-35, particularly those who may avoid traditional speculum-based screenings due to discomfort, fear, or accessibility issues, as well as healthcare providers seeking more accessible screening options.
Features
- Paper-based device for menstrual blood collection, designed for ease of use and self-sampling.
- Proprietary filter paper within the device quantitatively retains menstrual blood samples.
- Rapid extraction method enabling efficient recovery of genetic material from the sample in under 10 minutes.
- Molecular-based screening process targeting high-risk HPV types with results delivered in under 30 minutes.
- Triple-packaging for biological safety during transport and storage without requiring cold chain.
- Compatibility with both manual rapid detection and large-scale automated identification systems.