Palpa - shaping a world where breast self-examination is a normal habit
The visionary behind Palpa is Josefa Cortes, a 27-year-old designer who embarked on this entrepreneurial journey. Inspired by her close friend Jovita's battle with breast cancer, Josefa created a unique breast-shaped device with a simulated tumor inside. This device serves as a massager and soap dispenser in the shower, and also allowing women to familiarize themselves with the feel of a tumor and incorporate breast self-examination into their daily routines. The company's mission is to empower women with knowledge and awareness about their bodies from a young age.
Making breast self-examination a norm
Imagine a world where women can confidently do breast self-examinations without feeling any societal taboo. Wouldn't this simply reduce the risks of breast cancer? Absolutely! Meet Palpa, a company that is not just selling a product but reshaping the way we think about breast self-examination. Through education and innovation, Palpa is empowering women to take charge of their health and detect changes in their bodies early on, potentially saving lives.
A life-saving solution
Palpa's innovative product is the only domestic solution that simulates a tumor in a breast, helping women start self-care routines and detect potential changes early on. Not all anomalies felt during self-examinations are cancerous, but early detection can lead to timely intervention and prevent further physical and psychological effects or even fatalities.
In Chile, Palpa has already reached an impressive 75,000 women, leading to the detection of 11 tumors. Initially a B2B company, Palpa collaborated with over 150 companies and later decided to focus on B2C and D2C segments. Their new version of the product is set to launch in Spain in September, aiming to reach women globally and spread awareness about breast health.
Reaching more women
Josefa's dedication and vision have earned her recognition as one of the 100 young leaders of Chile in 2020 and one of the 100 leader women of Chile in 2022. Alongside her, a passionate team of eight individuals share the same vision of driving positive change in women's health.
The team's journey had its challenges, including shifting their sales strategy from a website to corporate gifting and finally to direct-to-consumer. However, with an invention patent for their 100% educational device, Palpa is most proud of breaking the taboo around breast self-examination. They have successfully made it a common topic of discussion among women, encouraging open conversations about healthcare.
Connect with others to grow
As the Femtech industry continues to grow and address unmet health needs of women, the Palpa team aims to connect with more women in the industry and explore new markets. Josefa's advice to aspiring entrepreneurs: Deeply engage with the problem you aim to solve and focus on the people who are suffering because of the issue they are trying to solve.
Palpa's inspiring journey reflects the power of mixing education with innovation and a passionate team. By promoting breast self-examination and fostering a culture of awareness, Palpa is making a significant impact on women's health, one self-examination at a time.
About Josefa Cortes
27 years old, designer, and Founder of Palpa. Recognized as one of the 100 young leaders of Chile in 2020, also one of the 35 innovators under 35 by MIT in 2022, and one of the 100 women leaders of Chile in 2022. Palpa was selected as one of the top 100 startups of Chile the 2023 by Forbes and Rockstart.
For more info:
Palpa's website: https://palpa.cl/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/palpacl