Timeline of Events at Hologic
1985:
Hologic is co-founded in Massachusetts by Jay Stein and David Ellenbogen with roughly a dozen employees and a single product idea focused on diagnosing osteoporosis.
1987:
Hologic introduces the QDR system, the world's first dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) bone densitometer, setting a new standard for bone health assessment.
Early 1990s:
Hologic's bone densitometry products are widely used globally for osteoporosis diagnosis and fracture prevention.
Late 1990s - Early 2000s:
Hologic strategically moves to enter the mammography field, including acquiring imaging technology firms to accelerate digital mammogram development.
Hologic incorporates a newly developed amorphous selenium detector into its digital mammography unit designs.
1996:
The ThinPrep® Pap Test, a liquid-based cytology method for cervical cancer screening developed by Cytyc Corporation, receives FDA approval.
1999-2000:
Hologic makes strategic acquisitions to enter the mammography field.
2001:
A new device called NovaSure® is approved to treat abnormal uterine bleeding.
Co-founder David Ellenbogen passes away.
2002:
Hologic's Selenia® mammography system receives FDA approval, marking the beginning of a new era in digital breast cancer screening.
Mid-2000s:
Hologic establishes itself in bone health and digital mammography.
Cytyc Corporation becomes a leader in Pap tests and women's oncology diagnostics.
2007:
Hologic acquires Cytyc Corporation in a merger valued at over $6 billion, creating a major company focused on advanced technology in women's health. This expands Hologic's portfolio to include the ThinPrep Pap Test, Rapid fFN® test, MammoSite®, NovaSure®, and later MyoSure®.
Late 2000s:
Molecular testing emerges as a new frontier in diagnostics.
2010-2012:
Hologic identifies Gen-Probe as a key player in molecular diagnostics.
2011:
Hologic's Selenia Dimensions® system with 3D mammography (breast tomosynthesis) receives FDA approval, becoming the first commercial 3D mammography system.
2012:
Hologic acquires Gen-Probe, making it a leader in laboratory diagnostics, especially for women's health and sexually transmitted infections. This brings the fully automated Panther® system into Hologic's portfolio.
2013:
Investor pressures mount and Hologic's stock performance lags.
Jack Cumming returns as interim CEO.
Activist investor Carl Icahn acquires a stake in Hologic, urging changes.
Steve MacMillan is appointed President and CEO in December, initiating a new era focused on organic growth, efficiency, and purpose.
2016:
Hologic divests its blood screening business to Grifols to focus on its core businesses in diagnostics and women's health.
Hologic launches the Affirm® prone biopsy system.
2017:
Hologic launches the Brevera® biopsy system with real-time tissue imaging.
Hologic acquires Cynosure, a company specializing in cosmetic and medical aesthetic lasers, in an attempt to diversify revenue.
2018:
Hologic introduces Clarity HD high-resolution imaging for mammography.
2019:
Steve MacMillan acknowledges that Cynosure has significantly underperformed.
The FDA clears Hologic's new assays for bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast/cervical infections (Candida/Trichomonas).
Late 2019:
Hologic announces its decision to sell the Cynosure division to refocus on core businesses.
2020:
Hologic completes the divestiture of Cynosure.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Hologic rapidly develops and receives FDA Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Panther Fusion® SARS-CoV-2 assay (March) and the Aptima® SARS-CoV-2 assay (May).
Hologic launches Project Health Equality to address racial and ethnic disparities in women's healthcare in the US.
Hologic acquires Acessa Health, maker of a laparoscopic system for uterine fibroid treatment.
2020-2021:
Hologic makes several "tuck-in" acquisitions to strengthen its core portfolio.
Fiscal Year 2021:
Hologic sees record revenues due to the demand for COVID-19 testing.
2021:
Hologic acquires Biotheranostics (precision oncology), Somatex Medical (breast biopsy site markers), and Diagenode (molecular assay components).
2022:
Hologic becomes the first-ever title sponsor of the global Women's Tennis Association (WTA) tour.
2023:
Hologic announces the acquisition of Gynesonics, developer of the Sonata system for incision-free fibroid treatment.
Ongoing:
Hologic continues to innovate in breast imaging, including the development of AI algorithms to assist radiologists.
Hologic's R&D teams work on next-generation diagnostic platforms with higher throughput and automation.
Hologic expands access to its technologies in emerging markets through its Global Access Initiative.
Hologic champions preventive care and awareness through initiatives like Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Cervical Health Awareness campaigns.
Hologic continues to emphasize its mission of improving the health of women globally through its products, advocacy, and research, exemplified by the Hologic Global Women's Health Index.
