Strabi-Cure

When we see the impact of Eye Problems in the lives of people it's heartbreaking that in India alone (approximately 35 million) and globally (2-6%) are suffering from this one serious problem to be treated in its  early stages to avoid permanent vision loss due to later stage amblyopia or misaligned eyes. The prevalence of this condition, known as strabismus, has surged, particularly among lower and upper primary school children, following the COVID-19 pandemic when the world went totally virtual for more than an year. For the excessive technology usage, disrupted lifestyle and sleep patterns during and after lockdowns kids showed significant changes in their eye health and some developed strabismus too.

Strabismus adversely affects individuals' ability to perform daily tasks, causing psychological and psychosocial challenges. The misalignment of the eyes and resulting appearance contribute to feelings of isolation, particularly among children, hampering their academic pursuits and life goals.

Strabismus, a prevalent eye condition among children, is commonly inherited, with approximately 30% of affected children having family members experiencing similar issues. It occurs when the eyes are improperly aligned, resulting in inward (esotropia), outward (exotropia), upward (hypertropia), or downward (hypotropia) deviation of one or both eyes.

Strabismus can be present at birth or acquired later in life due to factors such as accidents, trauma, or cerebral palsy. In some cases, it is intermittent, while in others, it is constant. Research indicates a rise in strabismus cases, particularly among children, following the pandemic due to increased screen usage.

Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent vision loss associated with amblyopia, commonly referred to as "lazy eye." Amblyopia occurs when proper vision development is hindered during childhood due to misaligned eyes.

Treatment options for strabismus include Vision Therapy, patching, eyeglasses, and, in rare instances, surgery. The most effective treatment involves supervised in-office Vision Therapy with additional home reinforcement. This therapy targets the root cause of the issue and boasts a success rate of 78%, surpassing that of surgery (48%). Surgery should only be considered as a last resort, specifically for cases of large-angle, intermittent exotropia, after unsuccessful attempts with Vision Therapy. It is important to note that surgery primarily provides cosmetic benefits.

Strabi-Cure consists of an eco-friendly jute string device, an innovation of brockstring and a beta eye recognition software that first identifies the occurrence of strabismus and then guides children through various exercises based on using the concepts of neuroplasticity to improve their vision. It utilizes vision therapy and other exercises with jute string similar to the brock string and eye pushups for strengthening the eye muscles.

Vision Therapy is a non-surgical treatment approach that aims to improve the coordination and functioning of the eyes and the visual system as a whole.

Strabismus has become more common these days. Especially after the pandemic cases have increased dramatically among children. We are trying to help people through our awareness workshops which are not specific to strabismus detection but also various types of eye problems and their causes and cures. Subscription to our App gives additional benefits to the patients reward points and gifts on regular use and working with therapy through the App.

The results of our project demonstrated promising outcomes. Children who diligently used the jute string device for vision therapy showed significant improvement, particularly in the early stages of strabismus. These findings align with published data that indicate the effectiveness of vision therapy in treating strabismus, surpassing the success rates of surgical interventions. By focusing on the root cause of the condition, our non-invasive approach offers a viable alternative for patients seeking natural recovery.

The gift of sight is a remarkable blessing, allowing us to experience the richness of life. However, for millions of people, sight becomes a burden rather than a joy. In India alone, approximately 35 million individuals suffer from strabismus, a condition where the eyes are misaligned. Globally, the prevalence ranges from 2% to 6%, with an alarming increase among children following the COVID-19 pandemic due to excessive technology use. Strabismus not only hampers daily tasks but also causes psychological and psychosocial difficulties, particularly due to the resulting misalignment and appearance. Motivated by the personal experiences of family members grappling with strabismus, we embarked on a research project aimed at finding effective solutions for this condition. Our objectives encompassed developing a sustainable and non-surgical approach to strabismus treatment, enhancing early detection through a dedicated mobile application, and raising awareness through workshops and community service. 

Alongside our research and development efforts, we conducted workshops to increase awareness surrounding eye problems and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. As part of our community service, we distributed over a hundred handmade, eco-friendly jute string devices to strabismus-affected children in schools and orphanages, thereby extending our impact and support. The positive outcomes observed among children who diligently used the jute string device have garnered recognition from specialists at esteemed institutions such as Sarojini Eye Hospital and LV Prasad Eye Hospital and Research Center. Encouraged by their support, we are committed to further research and development, as we firmly believe in the potential of our non-invasive and natural recovery approach to benefit numerous patients.

In Strabi-Cure we are not only designing for our users, but with our users!

As a team, we have a profound commitment to leveraging technology and biodegradable resources for natural recovery in eye healthcare. Our dedication is rooted in advancing solutions that align with environmental consciousness and social impact.

Our collective expertise includes backgrounds in science, optometry, computer science, and artificial intelligence. With extensive research on eye problems and a deep understanding of assistive technology, we are equipped to tackle the challenges of vision improvement.

Through our collaboration, we are able to integrate the principles of neuroplasticity into Strabi-Cure, guiding children through various exercises to enhance their vision. Our utilization of vision therapy and jute string exercises, inspired by the brock string and eye pushups, effectively strengthens the eye muscles.

As one entity, we work synergistically to bring Strabi-Cure to fruition. Our shared passion for innovation, technical development, and artificial intelligence drives us to create a solution that will make a positive impact in the field of eye healthcare.

We have chosen the "prototype" stage for our project Strabi-Cure as it aligns with our current progress and objectives. Our prototype consists of an eco-friendly jute string device designed for eye exercises to treat strabismus, paired with a user-friendly app. This app not only aids in the detection of strabismus but also facilitates remote therapy sessions, connecting patients with doctors for effective treatment.

To date, we have successfully developed and tested our prototype with the guidance and feedback of medical professionals. Through consultations with doctors, we conducted trials of the therapy with patients suffering from strabismus. These trials have been pivotal in refining our device's functionality and ensuring its efficacy in aiding eye exercises for strabismus treatment.

Furthermore, we have actively engaged in community outreach by organizing awareness workshops on eye health and treatment options in various schools and orphanages. During these workshops, we provided demonstrations of our device and distributed it for exercises to participants, including students and individuals in need. This initiative not only raised awareness about strabismus but also allowed us to gather valuable feedback from beneficiaries on the usability and effectiveness of our prototype.

Overall, our focus has been on building a functional and user-friendly prototype, conducting trials with patients under medical supervision, and disseminating knowledge about strabismus treatment through community workshops. As of now, we have directly served more than 1000 patients with our prototype and impacted many through our awareness programs, laying a solid foundation for further research and development.

This progress at the prototype stage has been crucial in validating our solution's feasibility and effectiveness in treating strabismus, paving the way for future scalability and impact.

We are applying to MIT Solve to tap into its vast network of mentors, experts, and partners who can help us elevate our project to a global scale and successfully launch it in the market. While financial support is beneficial, our primary goal in applying to Solve is to access the expertise and guidance needed to overcome specific barriers.

1. Market Barriers: We aim to reach a wider audience and penetrate new markets. Solve's connections with industry leaders and market experts can provide invaluable insights into market trends, consumer behaviors, and effective strategies for market entry and expansion.

2. Technical Challenges: Solve's network can connect us with technical experts who can help refine our project, improve its scalability, and ensure its sustainability. This includes guidance on technological advancements, software development, and data analytics to enhance our solution's effectiveness.

3. Legal and Regulatory Hurdles: Navigating complex legal and regulatory landscapes can be daunting. Solve's access to legal advisors and resources can assist us in understanding and complying with international laws, regulations, and policies related to our project's implementation and expansion.

4. Cultural Sensitivity and Localization: As we aim to launch our project globally, understanding diverse cultural nuances is crucial. Solve's diverse network can provide cultural insights and help us tailor our solution to different regions, ensuring its acceptance and effectiveness across various cultures.

5. Monetary and Non-Monetary Support: While funding is not our sole focus, Solve's support includes access to grants, potential investments, and in-kind resources such as access to cloud services, software licenses, and pro-bono consulting. These resources can significantly bolster our project's development and sustainability.

In essence, our application to Solve is driven by the desire to leverage its network and resources to overcome these multifaceted challenges. We believe that the mentorship, expertise, and connections offered by Solve will not only help us overcome these barriers but also accelerate the impact and reach of our project, ultimately benefiting communities on a global scale.

Our primary objective was to offer a holistic and natural cure for strabismus without relying on surgery. To achieve this, we designed a jute string device, akin to the Brock string, for vision therapy. Recognizing the importance of sustainability, we prioritized the use of biodegradable materials to create an eco-friendly alternative with a reduced carbon footprint. This innovation ensured not only the device's effectiveness but also its compatibility with our commitment to environmental responsibility.

Our project addresses the pressing need for a sustainable and effective solution for strabismus treatment. By combining a biodegradable jute string device with an innovative mobile application, we aim to provide holistic care, enhance early detection, and promote timely intervention. Through workshops and community service, we strive to raise awareness and make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals especially children affected by strabismus, which catalyzes broader positive impacts from other solutions in this area. Our idea can change the market/landscape by cutting down the costs due to surgeries and long-distance frequent travel for patients from remote areas by providing natural recovery under the hybrid monitoring system through an App and biodegradable device for therapy. Jute string device price is less than 50% of the existing devices which are also non-biodegradable and partially sustainable.

We are currently a team of more than 10 members. 

Full-time: 6 members
Part-time: 4+ members

Since 4 years. 

Our team at MIT Solve is truly a diverse group, representing individuals from India, Saudi Arabia, Canada, and Australia, spanning various age groups. This diversity not only enriches our perspectives but also allows us to bring a range of cultural insights and experiences to the table. We recognize the importance of diversity in driving innovation and problem-solving, as it brings together different viewpoints and approaches.

In line with MIT Solve's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, our team has set clear goals to enhance our diversity even further. We actively seek out opportunities to attract talent from underrepresented groups, ensuring that our team reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We believe that diversity is not just a goal but a strength, allowing us to approach challenges from multiple angles and create more impactful solutions.

To create a welcoming and inclusive environment, we have implemented various initiatives. These include regular diversity training for all team members to foster awareness and understanding of different perspectives. We also have open and inclusive discussions where every team member's voice is valued and heard. Additionally, we have established mentorship programs to support the growth and development of all team members, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.

Our team's shared goal is to create sustainable solutions that benefit humanity and the planet. Each team member brings their unique talents and expertise, whether it's in product design, scientific research, data collection, or marketing strategies. We collaborate closely, drawing from our diverse backgrounds and experiences to tackle complex problems comprehensively. Together, we strive to make a meaningful difference in people's lives, especially in the realm of health and well-being.

- Initially, we will adopt a B2B shared pricing model, partnering with hospitals and eye clinics.

- Institutions can offer our app and device to patients for a monthly fee, while also purchasing the central software for data management.
- After gaining traction and feedback, we plan to expand to a B2C model, offering a subscription-based app with a jute string device.

- With our unique focus on children and early detection, we aim to capture 10% of the market, translating to $135,000 in annual profit.
- Unlike our competitors, our app is kid-friendly, comprehensive, and cost-effective, offering a natural and effective recovery at a fraction of the cost.

- Our mission is to ensure early testing for strabismus in children and prevent visual problems later in life.
- We envision a world where every child can have access to affordable, engaging, and effective eye treatment.

Initially, we will adopt a B2B shared pricing model, partnering with hospitals and eye clinics. Institutions can offer our app and device to patients for a monthly fee, while also purchasing the central software for data management. After gaining traction and feedback, we plan to expand to a B2C model, offering a subscription-based app with a jute string device.

With our unique focus on children and early detection, we aim to capture 10% of the market, translating to $135,000 in annual profit. Unlike our competitors, our app is kid-friendly, comprehensive, and cost-effective, offering a natural and effective recovery at a fraction of the cost.

Our mission is to ensure early testing for strabismus in children and prevent visual problems later in life. We envision a world where every child can have access to affordable, engaging, and effective eye treatment.