Health technology startup Complement 1 has announced a $16 million oversubscribed seed funding round led by Owl Ventures and Blume Ventures, emerging from stealth to launch the first tech-enabled, clinically validated lifestyle modification platform for cancer patients and high-risk individuals.

Founded in 2024, the U.S.-based company aims to transform oncology care through personalized, daily guidance delivered via one-on-one support from dedicated CoActive Coaches. The platform focuses on evidence-based interventions across physical activity, nutrition, and somatic practices, designed to complement conventional cancer treatments.

The clinical impact of Complement 1's approach is substantial, with users experiencing 37% fewer treatment side effects, 18% less pain, 27% improved sleep, and program adherence rates exceeding 90%. Additionally, the platform has demonstrated potential to reduce cancer-related healthcare costs by up to 30%.

"Every oncologist understands the value of lifestyle change in improving patient outcomes, but implementation has remained a challenge. Complement 1 addresses this gap through high-tech, high-touch coaching that patients can realistically engage with throughout their treatment journey," said Karan Bajaj, CEO and Co-Founder.

At the core of the platform is a medically validated rule engine that tailors interventions to each individual's cancer type, treatment stage, side-effect profile, and personal preferences. All programs align with leading oncology guidelines, including those from the American Institute for Cancer Research, ensuring clinical rigor and relevance.

The company's approach is supported by decades of research showing that targeted changes in diet, physical activity, stress management, and related behaviors can reduce cancer recurrence by 35% and mortality by 37%, while significantly improving quality of life. With nearly 1 in 2 Americans expected to receive a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime, the need for scalable, integrative care models is increasingly urgent.

The new funding will enable Complement 1 to scale its CoActive Coaching operations across the United States, advance its AI-driven personalization engine, deepen partnerships with cancer centers, health plans, and employers, and enhance the digital experience for both patients and coaches.

Early actuarial modeling suggests the company's approach could reduce healthcare costs across cancer and high-risk populations by 30% through scalable lifestyle adherence, positioning Complement 1 to potentially redefine cancer care delivery through holistic, evidence-based lifestyle interventions.

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