When it comes to women's health, especially in the realm of reproductive issues, there's a disturbing trend of dismissal and disbelief. Keshika Jayakumar, a young entrepreneur and UOW student, knows this all too well. Her personal journey with period pain, which spanned over a decade, was met with skepticism from clinicians. This experience not only motivated her to pursue a career in healthcare but also inspired her to create a tech startup aimed at empowering women.
A Personal Mission
Keshika's background in cell and molecular biology, coupled with a nursing degree, has equipped her with the knowledge and drive to make a difference. Along with her classmate, Shaurya Kansal, she co-founded Cyra, an app designed to assist women in tracking symptoms of conditions like adenomyosis, PCOS, and endometriosis. What started as a university project has now evolved into a promising venture with the potential to revolutionize women's healthcare.
The Power of AI and Personalized Care
Cyra utilizes artificial intelligence to track users' cycles and identify patterns. This innovative approach allows women to take control of their health and provides them with valuable data to share with their doctors. Additionally, the app offers an at-home hormone test kit, similar to a pregnancy test, ensuring convenience and privacy. The results of these tests can be easily uploaded to the app, generating a comprehensive report for users to discuss with their healthcare providers.
Addressing Diagnostic Delays
One of the most significant issues Cyra aims to tackle is the lengthy diagnosis process for conditions like endometriosis. It currently takes an average of six and a half years to receive an endometriosis diagnosis, a delay that can be detrimental to women's health and well-being. Keshika hopes that Cyra will shorten this pathway, providing women with the tools to advocate for their health and receive timely treatment.
A Commitment to User Privacy
Ensuring user data security is a top priority for Keshika and her team. They have taken steps to guarantee that users' information will never be sold, a practice that has become all too common in the tech industry. This commitment to privacy is a crucial aspect of building trust with users and ensuring the app's success.
Looking Ahead
With the support of iAccelerate and the King's Trust Young Entrepreneur's Program, Keshika has not only received valuable mentorship but also secured seed funding and recognition for her work. She aims to launch Cyra within the next six months and has ambitious plans for the future. Her vision extends beyond screening; she hopes to develop Cyra into a diagnostic tool, making it the go-to resource for women's health in GP clinics and hospitals.
A Passionate Advocate
Keshika's personal connection to the cause is evident in her dedication to helping others. Her desire to make a difference, even if it's just for one woman, is a powerful motivator. As she continues to navigate the world of entrepreneurship, she remains focused on her mission to improve women's health and ensure that their voices are heard and their concerns are taken seriously.
