Fighting Cancer Network Inc., a Birmingham-based startup, raised $500,000 in its initial capital round.
The apps uses video to provide actionable knowledge to cancer patients and caregivers based on the patient's diagnosis. Using expertise from physicians and cancers centers, the app provides 3-D animated videos that are intended to answer questions a patient or caregiver may have.
Co-founders Matt Scalici, a Birmingham local and member of the Alabama executive team that founded The Golf Channel, and Mike Ousley, who has experience in television production as owner of Mike Ousley Productions, aim for the app to be a "cancer companion" patients and physicians can use following a diagnosis.
"Research shows that visuals are processed 60,000 times faster than text, which means the human brain can learn and retain much more using video," Scalici said in a news release. "Each video on the app will last an average of six minutes, which is scientifically proven to be the 'sweet spot' in holding attention and maximizing retention."
Videos on the app are tailored to the precise needs of individual patients based on their diagnosis to help them understand how cancer affects certain parts of their bodies, information about treatment, testimonials and tips for caregivers.
A working model of the app is slated to launch in 2023 with content limited to breast and prostate cancer. Funding is underway for the development of the full-scale version of the app, which is planned to include content relevant to the seven most prevalent cancer categories. The free app will be available on IOS and Android devices.
