Culturally tailored AI-assisted digital therapy for bladder symptoms in Black women
Official title: Culturally Adapted Digital Behavioral Therapy for Overactive Bladder in Black Women: An Innovative AI-Assisted Approach
Funded at Renalis Health INC. · NIH-11350201 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new AI-powered app called CeCe helps Black women learn about overactive bladder and manage its symptoms with education and coaching.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Renalis Health INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 5, 2026 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $327,593 |
| NIH project number | 1R43MD021396-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11350201 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Black women experiencing symptoms of overactive bladder who have access to a smartphone or digital device.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without access to or comfort using the CeCe app or who do not have OAB symptoms may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project uses a conversational AI app to deliver patient-centered education and behavior-changing coaching for overactive bladder in Black women. The app provides accessible guidance and symptom management strategies that can be used remotely. It aims to reduce barriers to care by addressing social factors and stigma that affect treatment uptake. The approach focuses on real-world use, user experience, and safety in a digital health setting.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the app could improve symptom control and quality of life for Black women with OAB and increase access to effective, first-line therapy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous digital health tools for OAB show promise but require cultural tailoring; this project tests an AI-assisted, culturally adapted solution.
Where this research is happening
-
Renalis Health INC.
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Baccellieri, Anna — Renalis Health INC.
- Study coordinator: Baccellieri, Anna
Related research
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.