ANATOMECH: PIONEERING HEALTHCARE WEARABLE TECH TO TACKLE CANCER-RELATED LYMPHEDEMA

In the bustling city of Pune, a ground-breaking startup named Anatomech is on a mission to revolutionize healthcare with its innovative wearable technology. Focused on rehabilitation and long-term therapy post-injury, surgery, and strenuous physical activities, Anatomech's primary emphasis lies on addressing breast cancer-related lymphedema—a surgical aftermath of mastectomy and similar procedures.

Empowering Home-Based Rehabilitation

For individuals grappling with chronic physical discomfort or undergoing extended recovery from injuries, home-based physical rehabilitation remains a considerable challenge. Anatomech, founded by Divyakshi Kaushik in March 2020, seeks to bridge this gap through its smart wearable devices designed to conduct daily therapy sessions within the comfort of one's home. Bringing over seven years of expertise as a design engineer in healthcare wearable devices, Divyakshi identified a critical gap in solutions for rehabilitation and recovery, leading to the establishment of Anatomech.

The startup, a BIRAC Social Innovation Fellow recognized by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, has introduced a range of static (non-tech) graduated compression products under the brand KUE, including socks, arm sleeves, and calf sleeves. Additionally, Anatomech plans to launch joint support for knees and elbows, expanding its product line to cater to a broader spectrum of users.

Innovative Wearable Technology for Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema

Anatomech's pilot technology product, currently undergoing preliminary testing, is specifically designed to address breast cancer-related lymphedema, a condition causing painful swelling and restricted limb mobility. This outcome of mastectomy disproportionately affects survivors, with more than 40% experiencing its impact after surgery and radiation.

The startup's bionic wearable for lymphedema is a daily smart device integrated with patented actuators. These actuators apply sequential and intermittent radial compressive pressures, aiming to enhance circulation and reduce chronic swelling and associated discomfort. Divyakshi emphasizes the urgent need for solutions that share the physical load, allowing for progress tracking and refined therapy plans.

Market Presence and Expansion Plans

Anatomech's brand KUE, launched in August 2021, offers a diverse range of compression products engineered to regulate blood flow, relieve fatigue and stress, catering to daily routines, endurance sports, and overall well-being. The startup, currently boasting a five-member team, plans to launch joint support for knees and elbows to alleviate limb discomfort for athletes and individuals with joint pain issues.

The KUE compression products, priced between Rs 350 to Rs 1,299, have already garnered significant traction, serving over 10,000 customers since their launch. The startup strategically distributes its products through e-pharmacies, popular e-commerce platforms such as Amazon and Flipkart, and its website, kues.in. Anatomech envisions further expansion by making its products available on e-pharmacies to ensure convenient access to rehabilitative wearables.

 Funding and Future Endeavours

Anatomech has secured approximately Rs 1 crore in funding through government grants from the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, and BIRAC, supported by Venture Centre. The startup has been incubated since 2018 and has received mentoring and networking opportunities through various programs, including Cornell Maha60, Qualcomm India’s QWEIN, Velocity by NSRCel, IIMB, and the Women Entrepreneurship Programme by InFED, IIM Nagpur.

Despite facing competition from global players, Anatomech stands out by offering Made in India, lab-certified products at a competitive price range. Looking ahead, Divyakshi envisions Anatomech creating tech products for the $350 billion home healthcare management market. The startup aims to adapt to the evolving healthcare landscape by integrating remote monitoring features, catering to the increasing demand for convenience, personalized care, and remote healthcare solutions.