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Heman Bekele, 14-year-old who invented soap to treat skin cancer named America’s Top Young Scientist

Herman Bekel
Updated Tue, Nov 21, 2023

In a remarkable achievement that has left the scientific community in awe, Heman Bekele, a 14-year-old ninth grader from Annandale, Virginia, has been named America’s Top Young Scientist for his groundbreaking invention – a soap that fights Cancer.

What does Heman Bekele’s soap do to fight cancer?

The amazing invention, a compound-based bar of soap called M.T.S., has garnered nationwide attention and admiration for its potential to treat melanoma, a severe form of skin cancer, at a mere cost of about 50 cents to make. This incredible feat is the result of Bekele’s unwavering dedication to finding innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing problems.

Who is Heman Bekele?

Heman Bekele’s journey to becoming America’s Top Young Scientist began with his deep-seated passion for science and a genuine concern for the well-being of others. It all came to fruition when he was awarded the 3M and Discovery Education prize for his remarkable invention, M.T.S.

This recognition has not only made Bekele a young prodigy but has also paved the way for his soap invention to potentially save countless lives reported Daily Mail speaking highly of the young talent.

Heman Bekele named America’s Top Young Scientist for inventing skin cancer soap
14-year-old Heman Bekele who was named America’s Top Young Scientist after developing a soap that fights skin Cancer.

What are the ingredients to Heman Bekele’s soap?

M.T.S. is a compound-based soap that he specifically designed to treat melanoma. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can be life-threatening if not detected and treated early. Heman’s invention provides an affordable and accessible solution to help combat this disease, which has been on the rise in recent years.

The significance of M.T.S. lies in its potential to make melanoma treatment more widely available and affordable, particularly in regions with limited access to healthcare resources.

In his submission video posted on YouTube, Bekele offered a detailed breakdown of the soap’s ingredients and its manufacturing process. The key components of M.T.S. include salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and tretinoin. These ingredients have been carefully selected for their well-documented properties in fighting melanoma. Salicylic acid, for instance, is known for its exfoliating and anti-inflammatory properties. Glycolic acid has been used to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of skin damage. Tretinoin is a form of vitamin A that is commonly used to treat various skin conditions.
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What sets M.T.S. apart from traditional treatments is its accessibility and affordability. With a production cost of around 50 cents per bar, this soap has the potential to revolutionize the way melanoma is treated, making it accessible to a broader range of individuals, including those who may not have the resources to undergo expensive medical procedures or access specialized treatments. Bekele’s invention represents a ray of hope for those who have been affected by this devastating disease, offering them a simple yet effective solution that can be used in the comfort of their homes.

The recognition from 3M and Discovery Education has not only celebrated Bekele’s brilliance but has also brought attention to the importance of encouraging young minds to engage in scientific exploration and problem-solving. Heman Bekele’s journey serves as an inspiration for young scientists around the world, proving that age is no barrier to making a profound impact on society.

Heman Bekele skin cancer soap

The story of Heman Bekele and his cancer-fighting soap reminds us that innovation knows no age limit. Bekele’s dedication to tackling the pressing issue of melanoma demonstrates the power of youthful enthusiasm combined with a genuine desire to make the world a better place. His invention, M.T.S., has the potential to save lives, improve accessibility to healthcare, and reduce the financial burden of melanoma treatment for those in need.
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Heman Bekele’s journey from a young student with a vision to America’s Top Young Scientist is a testament to the boundless potential of young minds. In an increasingly complex world, the solutions to our most pressing challenges may very well come from the brightest and most determined individuals, regardless of their age.

Heman Bekele’s story is a shining example of what can be achieved when passion, dedication, and innovation come together to address a significant global issue. America’s Top Young Scientist has set a remarkable precedent, reminding us all that change begins with an idea and the courage to pursue it posted Instagram page Black Enterprise.