Written by : Nikita Saha
March 3, 2025
This offering claims to detect over 6,000 diseases, including various cancers, with 100% specificity. The focus on preventive healthcare aims to identify health risks early, allowing individuals to take proactive measures.
SugarStrings.ai, a healthtech startup based in Bengaluru, has launched a new AI-driven genetic testing product named HEALTHSTRING.
This offering claims to detect over 6,000 diseases, including various cancers, with 100% specificity.
The focus on preventive healthcare aims to identify health risks early, allowing individuals to take proactive measures.
The HEALTHSTRING test includes a one-time genetic health report, a consultation with an expert, and updates over three years, all for a cost of INR 58,000.
Utilizing Next Generation DNA Sequencing, this test analyzes all functional regions of DNA through proprietary machine-learning algorithms.
The results are delivered in a clinically actionable format within four weeks, which according to the startup, offers detailed insights into potential health risks without the false positives common in other genetic screening methods.
Recently, SugarStrings.ai appeared on Shark Tank India, seeking INR 1 Cr for a 2.5% equity stake, valuing the company at INR 40 Cr. While the founders presented their innovative approach, the sharks expressed mixed reactions.
Concerns were raised about the high pricing and market readiness in India, with some sharks recommending a focus on international markets where acceptance of genetic testing is higher. Despite not securing an investment, the founders gained valuable feedback that could inform their future strategy, particularly regarding scientific validation and pricing models.