Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies (Terumo BCT), a global medical technology company, has made a strategic minority investment in Hemex Health, a biomarker measurement innovator, to improve outcomes for patients with sickle cell disease and other hemoglobin (Hb) disorders.

As part of the investment, Terumo BCT’s Chetan Makam, general manager, global blood solutions, has joined Hemex Health’s Board of Directors. The appointment is expected to strengthen collaboration and expand opportunities to drive shared strategies for patient care.

The partnership will focus on broadening access to Hb variant testing using Hemex Health’s Gazelle platform. Gazelle enables identification and quantification of Hb types in the blood, including sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait. Early detection allows timely treatment, while ongoing measurement can monitor therapy impact. In many regions, limited access to testing delays diagnosis and treatment for millions of patients.

Antoinette Gawin, president and CEO, Terumo BCT, said: “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. 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.”

The organisations are exploring several key areas of collaboration, including evidence generation, digital solutions across the patient journey, and patient access through strategic partnerships.

Makam said: “Knowing the treatment pathway, from diagnosis to care, is key for patients. 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.”

According to WHO and The Lancet Haematology, an estimated 8.27–8.60 million people globally are affected by sickle cell disease, with nearly 80% of cases in sub-Saharan Africa. The condition is also prevalent in India, the Middle East, and parts of the Mediterranean. Access to timely diagnosis and effective treatment remains limited in many low-resource settings.

Patti White, CEO, Hemex Health, said: “Access to timely Hb variant testing can change the trajectory of a patient’s life. By working with Terumo BCT, we’re expanding the reach of Gazelle and helping more people get the answers, and care, they deserve.”

Gazelle is CE-marked and currently available in over 40 countries across Africa, India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, having conducted over three million tests. The platform will further expand its reach through this partnership, with plans to seek US FDA clearance in the near future.