Hera Biotech has acquired HeraFem, a point-of-care cervical cancer diagnostic device developed by Hera Diagnostics, expanding its women’s health platform beyond endometriosis detection. The acquisition adds a device that achieves 91% sensitivity for detecting cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 (CIN2+) lesions through electrical and optical spectroscopy combined with AI algorithms.
The San Antonio-based company targets significant gaps in cervical cancer detection, where traditional Pap test sensitivity ranges from 55% to 80% for detecting high-grade lesions according to the U.S. National Cancer Institute. This variability contributes to missed diagnoses and delayed treatment in a disease that causes approximately 350,000 global annual deaths, with 94% occurring in low- and middle-income countries.
HeraFem provides same-visit diagnosis without sample collection, eliminating the multi-step process typically required for cervical cancer screening. The device removes limitations including cold chain sample transport, variable pathology interpretation, and follow-up visit requirements that can delay detection and treatment.
“For too long, time-consuming, imprecise testing methods have shaped women’s health,” said Somer Baburek, CEO of Hera Biotech. “Even in the U.S., over 10 million women live in healthcare deserts—proof that reliable access to accurate cervical cancer testing isn’t just a global issue, it’s systemic.”
In the United States alone, cervical cancer generates $2.8 billion in annual costs driven by diagnostic delays and outdated screening methods.
HeraFem’s AI-powered system improves accuracy with each scan, providing real-time results that eliminate patient anxiety associated with waiting for laboratory analysis. The device requires no invasive sampling, removing pain and discomfort associated with traditional screening methods.
“HeraFem closes persistent gaps in cervical cancer detection—speed, sensitivity, access, and patient experience,” said Teo Tijerina, CEO of Hera Diagnostics. “Integrated into Hera Biotech’s platform, it scales fast, precise, affordable care.”
Hera Biotech’s existing platform includes MetriDx, a non-surgical test for definitive endometriosis diagnosis and staging. The company combines proprietary tissue-based assays with point-of-care technology to provide lab-quality accuracy without laboratory requirements.
The acquisition supports Hera Biotech’s expansion into global markets, with secured distribution partners and pre-orders across Central and South America. U.S. regulatory pathways are underway. Hera Biotech is currently raising a bridge funding round to accelerate commercial scale for both its endometriosis and cervical cancer diagnostic platforms
