He’s only 15-years-old, but Heman Bekele has developed an innovative soap that could significantly change how skin cancers, including melanoma, are treated.
Born in Addis Ababa before moving to the US with his family at the age of just four, Bekele’s scientific journey began at age seven with experiments involving household chemicals. This early curiosity laid the groundwork for what was to follow. His achievements were previously recognized in 2023 when he was named America’s Top Young Scientist by 3M and Discovery Education. At just 14, Bekele outshone nine other finalists to win the prestigious title and a $25,000 (RM110,000) cash prize.
Heman’s innovative soap has the potential to offer a more accessible and affordable method to deliver medication for treating skin cancers, including melanoma, as stated in the magazine’s news release.
The soap is still being tested and is not commercially available yet. According to NBC Washington, it could take a decade for the soap to receive certification from the US Food and Drug Administration.
