Terumo BCT Partners with Hemex Health to Expand Access to Sickle Cell and Hemoglobin Disorder Testing Globally
Millions of individuals living with sickle cell disease (SCD) and other hemoglobin (Hb) disorders face delayed diagnoses and limited access to care, particularly in regions with scarce testing infrastructure. To address these challenges, Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies (Terumo BCT), a global medical technology company, has made a strategic minority investment in Hemex Health, a pioneer in biomarker measurement. The investment reflects Terumo BCT’s confidence in Hemex’s innovative platform and reinforces the shared mission of improving outcomes for patients with SCD and other Hb disorders.
As part of the investment, Chetan Makam, General Manager of Global Blood Solutions at Terumo BCT, has been appointed to Hemex’s Board of Directors. This appointment is expected to strengthen collaboration and unlock new opportunities for advancing their joint strategy.
The companies are focusing on broadening access to Hb variant testing using Hemex Health’s Gazelle™ platform, a critical tool for detecting and quantifying Hb types in the blood, including those associated with sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait. Early identification of Hb variants enables timely treatment, while ongoing monitoring helps assess therapeutic impact. Yet, in many regions, limited access to such testing delays diagnosis and care for millions.
“Our investment in Hemex and continued exploration of potential areas of collaboration is about meeting patients where they are, especially in communities that have long been underserved,” said Antoinette Gawin, President and CEO, Terumo BCT. “For too many, Hb variant testing comes too late, or not at all. By bridging monitoring and treatment, we’re changing that narrative and delivering timely, life-changing care to those who need it most.”
Key areas of collaboration include:
· Evidence generation
· Digital solutions across the patient journey
· Enhancing patient access through strategic partnerships
“Knowing the treatment pathway, from diagnosis to care, is key for patients,” said Chetan Makam. “At Terumo BCT, we endeavor to build a portfolio of tools that support patients and caregivers every step of the way. Our partnership with Hemex reflects our deep commitment to delivering real-world solutions that empower both providers and patients. By connecting every step of the patient journey, we aim to reshape the sickle cell ecosystem and improve outcomes at every stage.”
Globally, 8.27 to 8.60 million people are estimated to be affected by sickle cell disease, with nearly 80% of cases in sub-Saharan Africa, though prevalence also exists in India, the Middle East, and parts of the Mediterranean. Despite this scale, timely diagnosis and treatment remain limited, especially in low-resource settings.
“Access to timely Hb variant testing can change the trajectory of a patient’s life,” said Patti White, CEO of Hemex Health. “By working with Terumo BCT, we’re expanding the reach of Gazelle and helping more people get the answers, and care, they deserve.”
The Gazelle™ platform, CE-marked and available in over 40 countries across Africa, India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, has performed over 3 million tests to date, with plans to pursue U.S. FDA clearance and further expand its global impact.
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