Global Brain has invested in Cala Health, Inc., a Medtech startup that pioneers a wearable device for non-invasive tremor treatment

Global Brain has invested in Cala Health, Inc. (Cala Health), a US-based Medtech startup that pioneers a wearable device for non-surgical tremor treatment, through its KIRIN HEALTH INNOVATON FUND and Meiji Yasuda Future Innovation Fund L.P. (Meiji Yasuda FIF).

Tremor is a neurological disorder that greatly affects patients’ quality of life, making everyday tasks difficult and taking a toll on mental health. It is currently estimated that over 100 million people worldwide, primarily among the elderly, are affected by tremors, with projections exceeding 200 million in the future.^*1 Amid this growing prevalence, existing pharmacological and surgical treatments face significant challenges, including severe side effects and high invasiveness. As a result, there is a pressing need for innovative therapies that can alleviate the burden on patients while maintaining and enhancing treatment efficacy.

Cala Health’s FDA-cleared wearable device offers a safe and effective non-invasive treatment for tremors by delivering targeted electrical stimulation to peripheral nerves in the wrist, addressing the affected brain regions responsible for the condition.^*2 Designed in a sleek, smartwatch-style form, it ensures ease of use and effortless wearability, allowing patients to undergo treatment comfortably at home. Additionally, as the device is covered by medical insurance^*3, it helps alleviate financial burdens for eligible patients.

Global Brain highly values Cala Health’s strong growth potential in the US and the development and sales capabilities of its management, which has led to our decision to invest in the company. Through this investment, we are committed to supporting the further growth of Cala Health’s business.

^*1 Global Brain’s estimate based on publicly available information: Japanese Society of Neurological Therapeutics (2011), “Standard Neurological Treatment: Essential Tremor” and the United Nations (2024), “World Population Prospects”

^*2 The subject device is not commercially available outside the US. Indications for Use in the US: This device is indicated to aid in the temporary relief of hand tremors in the treated hand following stimulation in adults with essential tremor. This device is indicated to aid in the temporary relief of postural and kinetic hand tremor symptoms that impact some activities of daily living in the treated hand following stimulation in adults with Parkinson’s Disease. Caution: Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician. Before use, refer to the product labeling for complete product instructions for use, contraindications, warnings, and precautions at CalaHealth.com/Safety.

^*3 Currently, the target market is the US, with eligibility limited to beneficiaries of VA (Veterans Affairs insurance) and Medicare (insurance for seniors and individuals with disabilities).